The former Labor senator insists on the party’s focus on all Australians despite backlash from some Indigenous leaders

Independent senator Fatima Payman has recently launched her new political party, “Australia’s Voice,” which she describes as a platform for those “fed up” with the traditional two-party system. However, the name has sparked criticism, particularly from some Indigenous leaders who feel the term “Voice” co-opts their movement advocating for representation in Parliament.

Payman, who resigned from the Labor Party in July, stated her intention for the new party to serve as a centrist voice for the “disenfranchised, the unheard, and those yearning for real change.” Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, she declared, “We need a voice… because we can no longer sit by while our voices are drowned out by the same old politics.”

With her party’s launch timed close to the one-year anniversary of the failed Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum, the use of the word “Voice” has raised eyebrows. Indigenous leaders associated with the Yes campaign have expressed discontent, arguing that Payman did not seek permission to use the term, which they see as intrinsically linked to their fight for representation.

When questioned about the appropriateness of her party’s name and whether it might be seen as appropriating the term, Payman maintained that she had engaged in “many private conversations” with First Nations individuals regarding the matter, although she declined to disclose their identities. “The word ‘voice’ isn’t trademarked,” she asserted, distancing her party from the previous Voice campaign’s narrative.

Payman emphasized that her party aims to prioritise Indigenous issues alongside concerns affecting all Australians. “I think it’s important to see that Australia’s Voice, as a political party, will be prioritising and looking into Indigenous issues as much as it will be for all Australians,” she explained.

Despite the criticism, Payman showed no intention of retracting the name, stating firmly, “I don’t see why I should apologise.” Her refusal to change the party name underscores her commitment to establishing a political identity distinct from the established parties while addressing the needs of a diverse constituency.

The launch of “Australia’s Voice” reflects a broader trend in Australian politics, where smaller parties are increasingly appealing to voters disillusioned with the two major parties. As the political landscape evolves, Payman’s new initiative could reshape discussions around representation, accountability, and the urgent need for reform in Australian governance.