Employers firm on supporting Indigenous communities despite 'The Voice' rejection

Employers across Australia have reiterated their commitment on working with Indigenous communities despite "The Voice" referendum rejection on Saturday.

All six states in Australia voted "no" to the proposal that sought to alter the country's constitution in a bid to recognise First Nations people and to establish a body that would give them the capacity to advise the government.

Despite the overwhelming rejection, the Business Council of Australia (BCA) said it remains committed to the "social, cultural and economic prosperity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples."

"BCA members remain committed to working with Indigenous communities and, together, building prosperity in which all Australians share," BCA chief executive Bran Black said in a statement.

This commitment is translated to action through the BCA's Reconciliation Action Plans, by being major employers of Indigenous Australians, and by investing in communities, according to Black.

"Our landmark Raising the Bar initiative has contributed to an Indigenous business sector which is estimated to add up to $12 billion to the Australian economy," he added.

Employers' commitment

Major employers across Australia previously joined the chorus of support during the campaign for The Voice referendum.

These employers include the big four banks, supermarket giants Woolworths and Coles, Qantas, Telstra, mining giants BHP, Rio Tinto, and Woodside, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.

Over 2,200 directors and leaders across Australia also signed for the Directors for the Voice, a group that advocated for the passing of the proposal.

The group's co-convenors, Ming Long AM and Nora Scheinkestel, said they are "deeply saddened by the outcome of the referendum."

"We will all need time to digest the result, including first and foremost, considerations by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and its implications for them and for broader society," the co-convenors said on LinkedIn.

"We stand with them in support and will continue to advocate for a fairer, more inclusive society."

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said that while the result was not what he hoped for, he "absolutely" respects the decision of the people.

"It's now up to all of us to come together and find a different way to the same reconciled destination. I am optimistic that we can," he said in a press conference.