Summary
Australia has signed its first treaty with Indigenous people in the state of Victoria. This historic agreement establishes a formal relationship between the government and the First Peoples, creating a permanent First Peoples’ Assembly. The treaty aims to address past injustices and give Indigenous people a direct role in shaping laws and policies affecting their lives.
Key Facts
- Victoria in Australia has signed a treaty with Indigenous people, a first in the country.
- The treaty was signed by the state’s First Peoples Assembly and the state Governor Margaret Gardner.
- The treaty establishes the permanent First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria.
- The document aims to address historical exclusion and discrimination against Indigenous Australians.
- The process began in 2016, including the Yoorrook Justice Commission to hear from Indigenous people affected by colonization.
- Australia's 2023 referendum on creating a permanent Indigenous advisory voice did not pass.
- The treaty provides Indigenous Australians a direct voice in policy-making.
- The United Nations human rights chief called the treaty transformative for Indigenous inclusion.
