TREATY negotiations have resumed on Dja Dja Wurrung Country in Bendigo, marking a significant step towards Victoria’s first statewide Treaty.<\/p>\n
Premier Jacinta Allan joined First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria co-chairs Rueben Berg and Ngarra Murray at an opening ceremony and discussions last Wednesday.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
Talks focused on an ongoing role for the assembly in truth-telling and decision-making.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Negotiations are also continuing towards a separate Traditional Owner Treaty with DJAARA, representing the Dja Dja Wurrung people.<\/p>\n
The Government hopes to finalise a statewide Treaty by June 2026, after holding 58 rounds last year and planning 45 more this year.<\/p>\n
The Opposition has said it would end the process if elected in 2026.<\/p>\n
Since negotiations began, more than 700 local government, community and multicultural leaders have taken part in forums across Victoria.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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 […]<\/p>\n