While political parties are still struggling to find agreement on the subject, Australia’s Advertising Council is planning to formalise support for the ‘Voice to Parliament’ proposed by the Albanese government.

The ACA – whose chairman is Mark Green (pictured) – declares its aims as to “advance the practice, reputation and influence of the advertising industry” – would be the first media industry body to openly indicate its position on the referendum.

Trade publication Mumbrella quotes ACA chief executive Tony Hale, who linked the decision to the launch of its inaugural reconciliation action plan two years ago. However, it would continue to respect that member agencies and their staff were entitled to their own perspectives on the issue.

No formal endorsement of the Voice is expected from the AANA, according to Mumbrella, despite an educational session from reconciliation leader Shelley Reys at its Reset Conference.

Under the new referendum machinery bill, now passed, the referendum will operate in the same way as a federal election, with the same political advertising regulations media.