Victoria’s historic Treaty with First Peoples is here!

After decades of leadership from First Nations people, the very first Treaty Bill in our nation’s history was introduced into the Victorian Parliament during early September.

It’s a truly historic moment, and I feel incredibly honoured to stand alongside my Greens colleagues in supporting this bill.

As a Victorian I am proud that we are the first State to take this important step forward and I hope that other states, territories, and the federal government will be encouraged to pursue its own Treaty processes.

So, what will the Treaty Bill actually do?

The Statewide Treaty Bill 2025 will make the First Peoples’ Assembly permanent, as part of a new First Nations body called Gellung Warl (Gunaikurnai language).

Gellung Warl will play a vital role in our state and be able to decide on things like Aboriginal place-naming and cultural practices, support truth-telling education in our schools, and host events like NAIDOC Week. It will also have the power to question Ministers directly, holding them accountable on key commitments such as Closing the Gap.

The Statewide Treaty will ensure First Peoples can use their knowledge and experience to deliver practical solutions on matters directly impacting their communities.

Importantly, the Bill ensures the First Peoples’ Assembly must be consulted by the state government on any legislation affecting Aboriginal people, because Treaty is about self-determination, and when it comes to Aboriginal communities, cultures, and lands, the experts have always been Aboriginal people.

As a mum of three young kids, I am so thankful that my children will grow up in a State that has a Treaty with First Peoples. First Nations people have invited all Victorians to walk together with them in this journey to Treaty, to celebrate and share in the oldest continuous living culture in the world. What an incredible and generous gift.

Treaty is not just about politics, it’s about all of us. It will help every one of us deepen our understanding and connection to this place we all call home.

I cannot wait to stand on the banks of the Birrarung at the ceremonial signing later this year, with my kids, and show them what it means to walk together with First Nations people towards a better future.

If you have any questions about what Treaty is, or what it will do, as always you can get in touch with my office – [email protected] •