Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described it as an opportunity for every Australian "to be a part of making history".
On this referendum day, Saturday October 14, Australians were asked to decide if they approve of a proposed alteration to the Australian Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to the parliament and the executive government. In the end that decision was 'no'.
You can read more about the Voice here:
-
The Yes case for a Voice to Parliament
-
The No case for a Voice to Parliament
-
Hunter Aboriginal leader: 'This is a social justice issue'
-
Academic says we will regret rejecting Aboriginal recognition
-
I live in the bush and I'm voting 'yes'
Newcastle Herald journalists and photographers recorded this significant moment in Australia's history live from around Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter. The blog included updates from across the region, photos, videos, the result and a wrap-up of the day:
The blog may take a few moments to load:
Have you got an opinion about the referendum? Join the conversation. Leave a comment on the message board below.