A senior advisory group has begun designing an Indigenous voice to guide Australia's politicians.

This week saw the first meeting of the 19-strong group overseeing the 'co-design' process for the planned Indigenous voice in Parliament.

The group is led by Marcia Langton and Tom Calma.

Indigenous Affairs Minister Ken Wyatt said the group’s advice to him would be invaluable and appreciated.

“I ask that we remain respectful of each other and leave any outside issues at the door - we're here to grasp hold of a very unique opportunity to create lasting positive change for indigenous Australians,” he said at the meeting's opening at Old Parliament House.

The minister acknowledged the strong disappointment that the government will not enshrine the voice in the constitution.

“I'm not here to change your mind. But we are here to deliver outcomes for indigenous Australians,” he said.

The Federal Government has been accused of setting up the process – including the senior advisory group of Indigenous and non-Indigenous members – to divide Aboriginal groups, not unite them.