After a period of healing, reflection and discernment following the outcome of The Voice referendum, The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council (NATSICC) and Caritas Australia are calling on Catholic organisations across the country to rejoin the ‘One Journey, Together’ initiative.’ 

The initiative exists to unify Catholic organisations in Australia around a shared commitment to justice, reconciliation, and the amplification of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices. ‘One Journey, Together’ was a response to the calling of The Voice Referendum and sought to provide Catholics with information and resources grounded in Catholic Social Teachings to aid them on their journey of discernment. 

In the period since the outcome of the referendum, consultation with NATSICC has revealed the following areas of focus for the renewal of the ‘One Journey, Together Initiative’:

1. Health and socio-economic disparities: 

Partnering with communities to address systemic inequalities and improve outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

2. Self-determination and empowerment:

Supporting First Nations led initiatives that support subsidiarity.

3. Environmental custodianship:

Collaborating to integrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives on care for creation into Catholic agencies' environmental initiatives, such as Laudato Si' Action Plans.

Craig Arthur, National Administrator for NATSICC, said:

“The individuals and organisations that joined the ‘One Journey, Together’ initiative in the lead-up to the referendum helped foster a profound sense of belonging and unity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholics within our Church. We are committed to preserving and strengthening these vital connections as we collaborate and renew One Journey, Together for the next phase of reconciliation within our faith community.” 

Dean Price, Campaigns and Advocacy Lead at Caritas Australia, added:

“We are committed to furthering this work under the guidance of NATSICC, through advocacy, resources, and actions that are culturally grounded, spiritually enriched, and aligned with Catholic Social Teaching. As ‘One Journey, Together’ renews, we are calling on Catholic organisations committed to reconciliation and justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to join us.” 

Those wanting further information, a Terms of Reference for the ‘One Journey, Together’ initiative,’ or to express their interest, can email Dean Price on dean.price@caritas.org.au