Victoria’s legislative treaty has officially become law following its approval by the state’s Governor, Margaret Gardner. This significant milestone enables the treaty to encompass the entire state while also providing the flexibility for local Indigenous groups to negotiate individual agreements.

Governor Gardner remarked on the occasion, stating, “Today holds profound significance as it represents the coming together of two worlds in mutual respect and partnership.”

The commitment to the treaty includes ensuring that the promises outlined within this process are fulfilled, underscoring its importance and intention to make a tangible difference.

This landmark legislation follows approximately a year of negotiations between the Victorian government and the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria. These discussions were prompted by a truth-telling inquiry that highlighted the historical and ongoing mistreatment of Aboriginal people since European colonization.

Addressing the broader implications of the treaty, a representative emphasized, “The legislation explicitly addresses the goal of closing the gap on two occasions.”

“We will make sure that we deliver on these promises that are set out in this process.”

It came after about a year of negotiations between the government and First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria following a truth-telling inquiry exposing the mistreatment of Aboriginal people since colonisation.

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“The legislation speaks about closing the gap twice,” Bath said.