The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has reaffirmed its support of Australia’s First Nations people in their call for a constitutionally enshrined First Nations Voice. 

“AFCA proudly supports the recognition of First Nations people in the Australian Constitution through the Voice to Parliament,” CEO and Chief Ombudsman David Locke said. 

“We make this commitment and encourage our people and our community to do the same, based on the principles of Voice, Treaty and Truth.” 

“The Uluru Statement is a generous gift, an invitation for all Australians to walk alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples towards a better future. It calls for recognition of the sovereignty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the opportunity for their voices to be heard.” 

“As a national ombudsman scheme that provides services across the country, AFCA wants to be an organisation that delivers its service to First Nations peoples in a culturally informed, respectful and accessible way.” 

“We believe that all people need financial and economic inclusion and have seen through our work the impact on First Nations People and communities when their voices are not heard,” Mr. Locke said. 

AFCA’s commitment to the Uluru Statement, including The First Nations Voice to Parliament is outlined in its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). Find out more about AFCA’s Reflect RAP and Reconciliation actions here.

Published: 2 June 2023

Media enquiries media@afca.org.au

About AFCA

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) is a non-government ombudsman service providing free, fair and independent help with financial disputes. It is a one-stop-shop for consumers and small businesses who have a dispute with their financial firm, over things such as banking, credit, insurance, advice, investments or superannuation. Where an agreement cannot be reached between parties, AFCA can issue decisions that are binding on financial firms.