Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull insists indigenous Australians need to debate options for constitutional recognition without political interference.
Mr Turnbull made a statement to parliament on Wednesday to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the May 27, 1967 referendum and the 25th anniversary of the Mabo High Court decision.
As campaigners for the 1967 referendum and Eddie Mabo's family watched on, Mr Turnbull paid tribute to them while admitting Australia had not come far enough since those milestones were achieved.
Great things could flow from amending the constitution again, he said.
"We now have another chance to take another step in our journey."
It was hoped a referendum on constitutional recognition would coincide with the 50th anniversary but it has been delayed.
A historic summit is being held at Uluru this week where hundreds of Aboriginal delegates are hammering out what amendments to the founding document might look like.
A referendum road map will be presented to Mr Turnbull and Opposition Leader Bill Shorten in June, with a proposal ultimately to be put to voters.
Mr Turnbull said constitutional recognition needed to be embraced by indigenous Australians if it is to be proposed at all.
"It is vitally important our first Australians consider and debate the models of recognition free of political interference and that diversity of views and opinions within the Indigenous communities are discussed," he told MPs.
The prime minister announced a $138 million education package to enable economic and social inclusion of indigenous Australians.
"Now it is up to us to draw from the example of those we honour today and, so inspired, bring new heights and brighter blooms to that tree of reconciliation which protects and benefits us all."
