This week, the Statewide Treaty Bill was formally introduced to the Victorian Parliament – a historic step on our path toward Treaty.
For nearly a decade, the Victorian Labor Government has been on the Truth for Treaty journey for Aboriginal and First Peoples. But more than any government action, it has been the courage, persistence, and leadership of our Aboriginal communities that has brought us to this moment.
I have felt every step of this journey deeply. I’ve stood shoulder to shoulder with Elders, community leaders, and young people who have never stopped demanding justice and truth. Over the past few weeks, attending events across Melbourne, I’ve been reminded time and again that this movement is about so much more than legislation – it’s about healing, empowerment, and respect.
With 2025 marking the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC and the final report from the Yoorrook Justice Commission, the introduction of the Statewide Treaty Bill comes at a moment heavy with history but bright with hope.
What This Treaty Bill Will Deliver
If passed, the Statewide Treaty Bill 2025 will:
- Establish Gellung Warl (Gullungwarl), a permanent and independent representative body for First Peoples in Victoria.
- Grant Treaty-making powers to Gellung Warl, enabling it to enter and oversee Statewide Treaty negotiations.
- Advance First Peoples’ rights and self-determination, ensuring their human rights and freedoms are protected.
- Strengthen earlier legislation like the Advancing the Treaty Process with Aboriginal Victorians Act 2018 and the Treaty Authority and Other Treaty Elements Act 2022 to build a stronger framework for Treaty in Victoria.
Gellung Warl, meaning “tip of the spear” in Gunaikurnai language, will be the voice of the community – a voice that is respected, representative, and enduring. It will ensure Aboriginal people are not just heard but are leading decisions about their own future.
What Treaty Means to Me
This is personal.
I carry with me the stories of my ancestors and the aspirations of generations to come. The introduction of this Bill marks the beginning of a new chapter – one where First Peoples lead the conversations about our rights, our culture, and our future.
It is about respect. It is about truth. It is about creating a Victoria where justice isn’t just promised but delivered.
Walking Together Into the Future
This journey has always been driven by community – by the Yoorrook Justice Commission, the First Peoples Assembly, and the countless Aboriginal voices who have spoken their truth with courage.
To all Victorians – community and allies alike – I ask you to stand with us. Walk with us. Celebrate this historic step and commit to the work still to come as the Bill progresses through Parliament.
Because First Peoples should always be the ones making decisions about First Peoples. For today. For tomorrow. For generations to come.
