At a landmark ceremony on Wurundjeri Country in Melbourne, the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria and the Victorian Government officially began negotiations for the state’s first-ever Treaty. This historic step marks a new era of partnership and recognition for Aboriginal communities across Victoria.
A Groundbreaking Start on Wurundjeri Country
It’s a day that many have long awaited! The First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria and the Victorian Government have come together to start talks on the very first Statewide Treaty. Held on the sacred lands of the Wurundjeri people in Melbourne, the ceremony symbolizes a commitment to healing and building stronger relationships between Aboriginal communities and the government.
Aboriginal Voices Leading the Way
Ngarra Murray, Assembly Co-chair and a proud Wamba Wamba, Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Wurrung, and Dhudhuroa woman, couldn’t hide her excitement about this new chapter. She believes this moment could put an end to over 200 years of government policies that have often caused more harm than good to Aboriginal people in Victoria.
“When it comes to our communities, cultures, and languages, we are the experts,” Ms. Murray declared. “Through this journey to Treaty, we’re making sure our communities can use local knowledge to come up with practical solutions at a local level.”
The Importance of Self-Determination
At the heart of these Treaty talks is the principle of self-determination. It’s all about Aboriginal people having control over decisions that affect their lives and communities.
Rueben Berg, the Assembly Co-chair and a Gunditjmara man, emphasized this point. “Whether it’s caring for land, keeping culture strong, or improving services like health and education at a local level, we want to negotiate a Treaty that will empower our communities for generations to come,” he said.
Victoria’s Premier Embraces Truth and Change
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan acknowledged the significance of facing the truths of the past to create a better future.
“The past can’t be changed, but accepting the truth of Victoria’s history means we can do things differently,” Ms. Allan stated. “Laws and policies work best when the people affected by them have a say in how they work. Treaty will mean First Peoples have the power to come up with and deliver practical solutions for their communities at a local level.”
Communities’ Hopes Shape the Treaty
Since 2019, members of the Assembly have been on a mission. They’ve traveled to every corner of Victoria, engaging with communities to understand their hopes, needs, and dreams for the Treaty.
“We’ve listened to countless stories and ideas,” Ms. Murray shared. “Our people have so much wisdom and vision for the future. This Treaty is about turning those aspirations into reality.”
The upcoming negotiations aim to expand the roles and responsibilities of the Assembly. This ensures that local knowledge is always at the forefront when making decisions about Aboriginal communities, cultures, languages, and land.
Empowering Generations Through Treaty
Self-determination isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a pathway to better outcomes. Mr. Berg believes that when communities have control over their destinies, everyone benefits.
“We know people thrive when they can set their own course in life,” he explained. “Self-determination recognizes that Aboriginal people are the experts when it comes to our communities. It’s the right thing to do, and it’s just common sense if we want better outcomes in health, education, caring for country, and more.”
Local Treaties for Local Communities
In addition to the Statewide Treaty, Traditional Owner groups across Victoria will have the opportunity to negotiate their own Treaties. These local Treaties will reflect the unique priorities and aspirations of each community.
“This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach,” Ms. Murray emphasized. “Each community has its own stories, challenges, and dreams. Local Treaties ensure that these are recognized and respected.”
Decolonisation in Action: A Community-Led Journey
Ms. Murray celebrated the community-led nature of the Treaty journey, which embraces Aboriginal culture and lore.
“Treaty is from the ground up; the action is very much at a community level and doing things our way,” she said passionately. “What you’re seeing is decolonisation in action. Our people have been striving for this for generations, and now here we are, empowering our communities through the very first Treaty. It’s deadly!”
A Hopeful Path Forward
This historic moment is more than just a ceremony; it’s a commitment to a better future. With the voices of Aboriginal people leading the way, Victoria is setting a powerful example of how truth, recognition, and partnership can pave the way for meaningful change.
As negotiations continue, there’s a palpable sense of hope and determination. The journey ahead may have its challenges, but with communities united and dedicated leaders at the helm, there’s confidence that the first Statewide Treaty will bring lasting benefits for all.
Note: “Deadly” is an Australian Aboriginal English term meaning excellent or awesome.