Treaty talks continue on Dja Dja Wurrung Country

TREATY negotiations have resumed on Dja Dja Wurrung Country in Bendigo, marking a significant step towards Victoria’s first statewide Treaty.

Premier Jacinta Allan joined First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria co-chairs Rueben Berg and Ngarra Murray at an opening ceremony and discussions last Wednesday.

In a joint statement, the Victorian Government and the First Peoples’ Assembly said Treaty was about making a better and fairer state for all Victorians.

“Treaty is about making a better and fairer state for all Victorians, by ensuring First Peoples have a say over the policies that impact them and their families,” the statement read.

Talks focused on an ongoing role for the assembly in truth-telling and decision-making.

“The assembly will make decisions on matters that impact their futures and play an ongoing role in truth-telling, including capturing stories from across Victoria and retaining an archive of this information,” the statement read.

The Yoorrook Justice Commission’s final report is expected soon and is intended to support future public education and an official record of Victoria’s history.

Negotiations are also continuing towards a separate Traditional Owner Treaty with DJAARA, representing the Dja Dja Wurrung people.

The Government hopes to finalise a statewide Treaty by June 2026, after holding 58 rounds last year and planning 45 more this year.

The Opposition has said it would end the process if elected in 2026.

Since negotiations began, more than 700 local government, community and multicultural leaders have taken part in forums across Victoria.

The Victorian Government is represented by senior Department of Premier and Cabinet staff, while the First Peoples’ Assembly appoints member negotiators to advocate for Aboriginal communities.