UPDATE: In a groundbreaking move, the state of Victoria has officially made history by passing its Treaty into law, marking Australia’s first formal agreement with its Indigenous peoples. This momentous decision, celebrated in the state’s upper house just moments ago, signifies a profound step towards reconciliation and justice for the First Peoples of Victoria.
The Treaty establishes the First Peoples’ representative body, known as Gellung Warl, translating to “pointed spear” in the Gunaikurnai language. It comes after over a decade of advocacy and more than two centuries of systemic injustices faced by Indigenous communities, including violence and cultural dispossession.
The Yoorrook truth-telling process will continue under the new framework, with the creation of the Office of Truth-telling and Healing, aimed at confronting and addressing the historical wrongs inflicted upon First Peoples. As part of this initiative, the Outcomes and Justice Commission will oversee independent inquiries and promote healing.
Ngarra Murray, co-chair of the First Peoples’ Assembly, declared, “This is a historic moment for our people. We will tell our children about today, and they will tell their children.” This sentiment encapsulates the emotional weight of the day, highlighting a collective memory of resilience and activism that has led to this pivotal moment.
The Treaty recognizes the First Peoples of Victoria as the original custodians of the land, acknowledging their ongoing role and the impact of colonization that has led to persistent discrimination and trauma. The accompanying bill states, “These acts of injustice must not continue or be repeated,” reinforcing the urgent need for change.
The legislation received overwhelming support from various political factions, including Labor, The Greens, and the Animal Justice Party, as cheers erupted in the public gallery upon its passage. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has voiced her commitment to support the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people’s native title claim, which was lodged last week, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging Indigenous rights.
Parallel to these developments, the Wurundjeri claim focuses on the lands and waterways around greater Melbourne, aiming to enhance Indigenous control over Crown land. This claim, if successful, would not affect private property but would formally recognize the connection of Traditional Owners to their ancestral lands.
Despite this significant progress, challenges remain. The Victorian government is facing criticism for its recent push to impose life sentences on young offenders, a move that Indigenous advocates argue will disproportionately impact Indigenous children. The First Peoples’ Assembly is calling for a focus on prevention rather than punishment to ensure community safety and progress.
As the Treaty officially commences on December 12, 2023, a day of ceremony and celebration is planned in Federation Square, Melbourne. This marks not just a new beginning for Victoria but potentially sets a precedent for treaty discussions across Australia.
In the words of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, this agreement represents “a major step towards justice and equality” and could inspire other jurisdictions to recognize Indigenous rights.
Stay tuned for further updates as Victoria embarks on this transformative journey towards reconciliation and healing. The eyes of Australia and the world are now on Victoria as it leads the way in acknowledging and addressing its past.
