The chiefs of some of Australia’s biggest companies will be confronted at their annual general meetings by small shareholders demanding answers on how bankrolling the Voice Yes campaign aligns with the firms’ core business.poured millions into the Yes campaign
Waterhouse said investors had been writing to companies about their concerns, highlighted by a survey her association conducted in July showing 70 per cent of 300 respondents opposed donations to either the Yes or No side. “As directors, we have to consider what’s in the best interest of the organisation and every director will bring their life experience and diversity of thought to that board,” she said.
Many companies, peak bodies such as the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and sporting codes including the AFL and NRL have announced their support for the referendum, even asThe Directors for the Voice group ran full-page ads in national newspapers earlier this month declaring support for the Voice.
Senator Paul Scarr, a leader of the Liberals for No group, said the link between the traditionally pro-business Coalition and corporate Australia would be harmed as a result of the referendum.