Victoria Introduces First Statewide Treaty Bill With First Nations

Victoria has introduced a historic treaty bill to establish the first formal agreement between a government and First Nations peoples in Australia, marking a significant step toward addressing the legacy of colonization. The bill aims to make the First Peoples Assembly a permanent, decision-making authority with the power to influence laws and policies affecting Indigenous communities, emphasizing that practical solutions must come from First Peoples themselves. It includes the creation of an independent Outcomes and Justice Commission, Nginma Ngainga Wara, to hold ministers accountable through public hearings, and continues the truth-telling work initiated by the Yoorrook Justice Commission. The treaty legislation also plans to embed Indigenous history and truth-telling in the education curriculum from prep to Year 10 statewide. The Assembly and the new authority, Gellung Warl, will oversee consultation with government bodies, aiming to reset the relationship between First Peoples and the Victorian government, fostering respect, trust, and integrity without detracting from the broader community. This treaty is seen as a commitment to practical change, shared progress, and a future where dignity and opportunity are accessible to all Victorians.