Victoria’s First Nations peoples have welcomed the formal start of the state treaty with Indigenous Australians.
The event included a free public concert at John Cain Arena, featuring artists such as Yothu Yindi, Briggs, Paul Kelly, Baker Boy and Missy Higgins.
Cultural ceremonies and performances were also held by prominent Indigenous Australians and advocates.
Prime Minister Jacinta Allan, Treaty Minister Natalie Hutchins and Victoria’s First Peoples’ Assembly co-chairs Ngarra Murray and Reuben Berg placed their hands in ocher and made an imprint on a kangaroo skin as part of the event.
The Treaty elevates the First Peoples’ Assembly to a permanent, legally established body that represents the First Peoples and makes decisions within existing parliamentary and democratic structures.
It has been described by the Treaty Authority as “the first First Nations Treaty in Australia’s history”.
Djaran Murray-Jackson represents the Dja Dja Wurrung people in the First Assembly of Victoria.
He told NITV it is exciting to see the progress made in delivering better outcomes for the community.
Victorian Prime Minister Jacinta Allan places her handprint on the symbolic agreement to the Treaty. Source: MONKEY / Con Chronis
“I’m excited and hopeful for the future. We got the first statewide treaty in this country. And I’m excited to see what we can accomplish once we have the power to do things we want to do with our people,” he said.
“I’m really looking forward to the next term – and seeing where we end up and deliver practical results for our people.”
The festivities come days later Allan issued a historic apology for laws, policies and practices that have contributed to injustice against Aboriginal people in the state.
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