“It’s pretty emotional,” said North,a former Socceroo and co-chair of Football Australia’s inaugural National Indigenous Advisory Group. “These things take time - it’s all about timing. Gathering from the feelings and emotions today,I think we’re on the brink of something special.

“As a proud Aboriginal man,I’ve always stood up for what I believe in. Whether it’s for right or wrong,I am here today and representing not only my code that I play but also on behalf of a lot of Aboriginal people here in Australia.”

Meninga said the referendum called by the Albanese government for later this year is “something we have to consider deeply”.

“I think in this case sport and politics mix,” he said. “In this case we’re a bit more openly vocal on it all. To me,having a sporting background,everyone’s voice matters. Without that voice,you can’t move forward.

“It’s really important that people think deeply about their vote. Sport plays a really important part in everyone’s lives in Australia. It’s the fabric of most Australian households,so I like the fact that 20 sports are represented and they’re going to vote yes.”

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