‘No alternative’ to voice, Pat Dodson says in last-ditch appeal ahead of referendum

Long at forefront of reconciliation, Labor senator warns of ‘draconian agenda’ of Coalition and increased sense of national ‘shame’ if no vote wins

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Senator Pat Dodson has warned there is “no alternative” if the Indigenous voice referendum is defeated on Saturday, saying that would be a “very sad outcome” that would leave a “legacy of lies” denying recognition of First Australians’ status.

Dodson, the government’s special envoy for reconciliation and implementation of the Uluru statement from the heart, also warned of the Coalition’s “draconian” agenda towards Indigenous Australians and an increased sense of national “shame” if the no vote wins the 14 October referendum.