Talks over referendum

CONSTITUTIONAL recognition of indigenous people will come a step closer when Tony Abbott and Bill Shorten meet in Sydney for talks on a referendum.

The prime minister and Labor leader will join indigenous leaders on Monday to discuss a model for a possible referendum in 2017 – the 50th anniversary of the landmark vote on indigenous rights.

Polls show at least twothirds of Australians support the concept, but there is no clear agreement on the wording. Mr Abbott has previously said the meeting would help inform the process for deciding on a referendum proposal that would have the best chance of succeeding.

Mr Shorten wants to ensure the campaign for indigenous recognition does not lose momentum and that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders are listened to in a “serious and considered way”.

Recognise campaign director Tanya Hosch said the meeting would be unprecedented.