‘Nonsensical’: Indigenous leaders say no point in regional voices without national body

Representatives from remote communities in Cape York, the Torres Strait and Far North Queensland have spoken at a federal inquiry

• Follow our Australia news live blog for the latest updates
• Get our morning and afternoon news emails, free app or daily news podcast

Remote Indigenous community leaders have told a federal inquiry it would be “nonsensical” for the voice to parliament to be made up of regional and local bodies without a national body advising Canberra.

Leaders from remote communities in Cape York, the Torres Strait and Far North Queensland passionately advocated for a voice during Wednesday’s public hearing in Cairns.

Sign up for Guardian Australia’s free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup