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Radio France Internationale
Radio France Internationale
World
RFI

Australia holds landmark referendum on indigenous representation

People take part in a "Walk for Yes" rally in Sydney on 17 September 2023, ahead of the 14 October referendum that could grant indigenous Australians a constitutionally enshrined right to be consulted on policies that affect them. © AFP - ANDREW LEESON

Australians will on Saturday vote whether to recognise First Nations peoples in the country's constitution for the first time. But the lead-up to the referendum has triggered a torrent of racist abuse, with toxic debate spreading online and in the media.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Friday issued an emotional, final-day plea to salvage the poll, telling voters: "Kindness costs nothing."

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