Whilst the NSW Aboriginal Land Council has requested a week of silence out of respect for the hurt and disappointment many feel with the outcome of the referendum, a number of prominent leaders say now is not a time for advocates to be silent.

Aunty Violet Sheridan, a Ngunnawal Elder based in Canberra, spoke out Monday to call on the ACT Government to act on the overwhelming mandate for a Voice to Parliament in their jurisdiction.

A snapshot of National votes. (Image: ABC News website)

The Australian Capital Territory was the only State or Territory in Australia that voted Yes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to have a say in the policies and politics that impact them, with over 60 per cent of residents voting in favour.

Acknowledging the disappointment felt by many First Nations people, including the personal impact this has had on her and the sadness she feels in the aftermath of the referendum, Aunty Violet said the result places the Australian Capital Territory in a unique position to implement the Uluru Statement of the Heart in Full.

"The outcome of this referendum reflects not just a mandate but a resounding demand for change and justice, a passionate plea to secure the rights of our First Nations people," she said.

"I want to acknowledge and celebrate the tireless work of the countless volunteers who dedicated their time and efforts to this cause and honour the outstanding leadership, contribution and determination of the First Nations leaders who have dedicated their lifetimes to advocating for First Nations issues, both nationally and here locally in the ACT. The path forward must incorporate the key elements of the Uluru Statement from the Heart - Voice, Treaty and Truth.

"The ACT Government can and must lead the way, responding to the heartfelt plea of its people and in doing so, take momentous strides towards securing rights and justice for my people. The work of these remarkable leaders, whose lifelong commitment to First Nations issues both nationally and locally in the ACT, must continue to inspire the next generation to honour their incredible legacy, as they embrace the principles of Voice, Treaty and Truth. Despite the personal impact and deep sadness I feel for our nation, I am determined to continue the fight for a better future, not only for my family but for all future generations to come."

Whilst the Territory's referendum preference represents progressive views of a majority of the population, the results contrast with the Productivity Commission's recent report on incarceration in the ACT which reveals deeply ingrained systemic disadvantage particularly in the Justice Directorate.

The report states Canberra has the worst incarceration rates across the nation and that an Aboriginal person living in the nation's capital is 20 times more likely to be imprisoned than a non-Aboriginal person.

Aunty Violet, who has continually demonstrated dedication to justice and the empowerment of First Nations communities in the ACT, has underscored the immediate need for action.

On the back of the referendum outcome, she has stressed that now is the time for transformative change, particularly in the regions capital where a majority has supported a Voice to Parliament.

She recognised decades of First Nations leadership, the invaluable contributions of the volunteers involved in the YES Campaign and efforts of the emerging First Nations leaders and advocates who shined throughout this referendum process.

Aunty Violet said change in the ACT needs to be guided by the principles of Voice, Treaty and Truth, and a determination to secure a better future for all.

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr told National Indigenous Times the ACT has an established "voice" through the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body.

"The ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Agreement 2019-2028 guides our shared work on healing, reconciliation and closing the gap. It's clear a strong majority of the ACT community want to demonstrate respect and support for First Nations people," he said.

"Following the week of silence and reflection on the referendum result, we will continue to engage on the best ways to achieve our shared goals."

In an earlier statement, the government said the referendum result "should not stop us on our journey towards Reconciliation, including the important work under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap".