If the stolen children, their families and communities have suffered pain and loss worthy of compensation, in whatever appropriate form that might take, then we must respond positively. Our response should be framed with compassion and fairness, with a vision for what can be achieved. It would be a tragedy for the reconciliation process if we were to proceed in a mean-spirited way, only to later be admonished by the courts and forced begrudgingly to meet our lawful and proper obligation. Modern democracy requires much of governments. We live in an information rich, educated and aware society.
Social cohesion can only come from consensus.
Fifty percent plus one of the electorate can determine the government of the day, but that government must act for all Australians. Entrenched structural and social disadvantage and alienation are recipes for social dislocation and disorder. Reconciliation and social harmony require courageous and visionary government. This convention could not be more timely. Your concerns are at the forefront of contemporary national debate.