A run-of-the-mill suburban street has produced a striking illustration of opposing views on the Indigenous voice to parliament.
There is no grey in the referendum debate between these neighbours, where the line between ‘yes’ and ‘no’ is drawn along the property boundary.
While Queensland might not be considered a key campaign ground by some campaigners, the households in the coastal suburb of Wynnum in Brisbane’s east have taken it up with gusto.
One house, painted black, displays signs urging passing drivers, bike riders and joggers using the popular oceanfront esplanade to “Vote Yes” and has a massive Aboriginal flag on the garage door.
The house next door – painted white such as many others in the suburb – urges the same crowd of mostly tourists, anglers and boating enthusiasts to “Vote No to the voice of division” and flies an Australian flag.
AAP has sought comment from residents at the ‘no’ house. There was no answer to a knock at the door at the ‘yes’ house.
Open advocacy for either side of the voice debate appeared to be absent at nearby houses, low-rise apartment blocks and businesses.
But one hatchback car parked on the street, sporting P-plates, had a “Vote No” sticker on the back window.
As the October 14 referendum on a First Nations voice draws closer, mental health experts have developed new resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who feel adversely impacted by the tone of the debates.
The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation has partnered with Indigenous HealthInfoNet to provide extra support.
“We are witnessing first-hand the adverse consequences of this debate within our communities,” NACCHO chief executive Pat Turner said.
This was manifesting as heightened psychological distress, an increased demand for assistance and greater use of social and emotional wellbeing and mental health services.
“The resources we’ve developed are not the answer but are critical tools to help keep our community safe and well,” Ms Turner said.
The Healing Foundation, which represents members of the Stolen Generations, concurred.
“These resources have tools and tips on managing stress for self, family and community and managing increased misinformation,” acting chief executive Shannan Dobson said.
“While these resources are for the current heightened racism, they are useful tools for our mob for general wellbeing.”
13YARN 13 92 76
Aboriginal Counselling Services 0410 539 905
