I BELIEVE in democracy. I accept and respect the outcome of the referendum held on Saturday.

Throughout this process, we need to remember that First Nations people are not just Australian citizens, they are our brothers and sisters.

This result will be very difficult for many of them, and for all those who campaigned for recognition in, and change of, our constitution, and for a better future for Indigenous Australians.

From here on in, we must redouble efforts to close the gap on the very real disadvantages which First Nations people suffer even today.

At the same time, racism, bigotry and xenophobia should have no place in our country and our community.

If we are to move forward, we need to embrace each other in unity and purpose with love and affection, with kindness and grace, with acknowledgement and respect. We are all Australians.

I want to thank the many local volunteers who campaigned so strongly for the Voice during the referendum campaign and for their commitment to making the world a better place. I am proud to have worked with you.

Our work goes on. Our national story will continue. Our journey towards justice must endure.

- SHAYNE NEUMANN, Member for Blair