Q+A S2023E24 - Q+A from Garma

This week Q+A is heading to North-East Arnhem Land for a special episode from the Garma Festival, Australia's largest Indigenous cultural gathering. Australia is at a pivotal moment in its history, as the nation decides together whether Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will be recognised within the Constitution and heard through a Voice to Parliament.

The festival's theme this year is "djambatj", meaning a perfect moment in time when the balance of the world is in order. It's a vision that organisers say was embodied by Garma's former chairman Yunupingu, who will be honoured and remembered at this year's event.

After a bruising week in parliament and with polls showing that the referendum is facing a challenge to succeed, the PM is facing a battle ahead as polling day approaches. Festival chair Djawa Yunupingu says now is a moment in time that offers the promise of a new world. "One way or another, the nation will change," he says. What will Australia look like after the crucial vote?

Presented by guest host Dan Bourchier, Q+A will speak to Indigenous leaders and discuss issues facing their community and will feature a music performance by King Stingray.

Joining Dan Bourchier at Garma:

Malarndirri McCarthy, Assistant Minister for Indigenous Australians & Indigenous Health
Marcia Langton, Professor of Australian Indigenous Studies
Merrki Ganambarr-Stubbs, Yolŋu Elder and Co-principal of Yirrkala Community School
Ben Abbatangelo, Gunaikurnai and Wotjobaluk journalist & writer
Taylah Gray, Proud Wiradjuri woman and lawyer