ANTaR welcomes the Coalition's commitment to recognise Indigenous people in the preamble of the Australian Constitution.

"The Constitution is Australia's founding governance document. It is of vital importance that it acknowledges the unique place, history and rights of Indigenous peoples in our nation," said Dr Janet Hunt, ANTaR President.

"Bipartisanship is essential to build broad community support to deal with this unfinished business. It is significant that the three major parties have now committed to recognising First Australians in our Constitution," Dr Hunt said.

"It is now of utmost importance that the wording of the preamble is developed in partnership and negotiation with Indigenous peoples," said Dr Hunt.

Senator Scullion also announced that Indigenous Affairs will return to a cabinet level stand alone portfolio.

"ANTaR welcomes a stand alone Minister for Indigenous Affairs. It is essential that this portfolio is held by a senior cabinet minister. A senior cabinet position recognises the significance and complexity of the issues concerning Indigenous peoples," said Dr Hunt.

In 2010 ANTaR launched a year of re-commitment to reconciliation - with a focus on constitutional reform - with our Are we there yet? campaign.

ANTaR is the pre-eminent non-Indigenous national advocacy organisation dedicated specifically to the rights - and overcoming the disadvantage - of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Media contact: Dr Janet Hunt - 0408 170 448