Aboriginal rights referendum on track to be voted down as issue divides Australians in polls

It is the first referendum to be held in the country in 25 years. The last, in 1999, concerned whether Australia should break its links to the British crownabandon the Queen as head of state and become a republic, with the proposal rejected by 55 percent of voters.

Support for the policy has been falling steadily in recent weeks.

For the referendum to pass, a national majority of votes is required, as well as a majority of votes in at least four of Australia’s six states to be able to change the constitution.

The centre-left Labor government, which pushed through the referendum, is under pressure as public support for the constitutional change appears to be waning.

Antonio Albanesethe prime minister, says the referendum is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for correct historical errors and improve the lives of indigenous peoples, who suffer from high rates of incarceration, suicide, poor health, and unemployment.

“It is a moment that brings out the best in our Australian character. For Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders this has been a marathon. For all of us, it is now a sprint,” he stated.