Improving the health and education of Indigenous Australians and listening to their voices are priorities for the federal government.

The federal budget released on Tuesday included $1.9 billion in measures which Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney said would make a “practical difference”.

The government has allocated $364.6 million for the referendum to enshrine an Indigenous voice in the constitution, including funding for the electoral commission, civics education and mental health support.

With smoking and vaping being a persistent health problem in Indigenous communities, a $141.2 million prevention program will be rolled out.

Cancer services targeted at First Nations people will get a $238.5 million boost.

A dedicated action plan to improve Indigenous women’s safety and tackle family violence will cost $194 million over five years.

Regional and remote Indigenous community water infrastructure will get a $150 million upgrade over four years.

As well, $155.9 million has been allocated over five years for Central Australia to improve school attendance, health, reduce crime and improve broadband and digital services.

Indigenous rangers will continue their work in reducing biosecurity risks across northern Australia, with $40.6 million going to programs.

A one-year partnership with the Northern Territory government, at a cost of $111.7 million, will see new remote housing built to reduce overcrowding.

Jobless Indigenous people are set to benefit from a new scheme to replace the Community Development Program.

Education will receive a $60 million injection with an extension of support for boarding students and more culturally appropriate distance learning.

By Paul Osborne in Canberra