Ms O’Keeffe said she intended to vote ‘yes’ at the referendum for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament.
“For the past months, I have been following both sides of the Voice debate,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
She also said her stance came after careful deliberation and numerous interactions with constituents, particularly those in the Indigenous community.
“I have met with our local elders, the Shepparton Reconciliation Group and have had many discussions among the community,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
She also said that Shepparton was home to one of the largest Indigenous communities outside Melbourne, and “a very high majority” of the local Indigenous people she had spoken with supported the Voice.
“It is an individual choice on which way we vote, and the choice that each of us makes should be respected,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
“It’s a democratic process, and ultimately a decision will be made by the Australian people.
“I have always said that I will support our Indigenous community, and I stand by that.”
Ms O’Keeffe said her announcement had been met with appreciation from local Indigenous leaders who have been campaigning for the Voice.
“I hope that we can all move through this process in a calm and considerate manner,” she said.
