The Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people have officially lodged a significant native title claim in the federal court, aiming to secure legal recognition of their ancestral rights and deep-rooted connection to the land encompassing Melbourne and its suburbs.

This expansive claim spans across thousands of square kilometers, stretching from the northern reaches beyond the Great Dividing Range, extending eastward towards Mount Baw Baw, and reaching west to the Werribee River, with its southern boundary marked by Moradialloc Creek.

Filed on a recent Friday, the claim seeks to affirm the traditional rights of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people, underscoring their enduring bond with the land. This legal move follows closely on the heels of Victoria’s groundbreaking decision to become the first Australian state to enact a treaty with its Indigenous communities, marking a historic milestone just over a week ago.

Elder Perry Wandin emphasized the importance of this legal action, stating that it is time for the traditional lore and customs of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people to be formally acknowledged. “Wurundjeri people have fought for decades for recognition and respect, and have been at the forefront of protecting culture and country in Melbourne and surrounds,” he asserted.

Elder Perry Wandin said it was time for the traditional lore and customs of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people to be recognised.

“Wurundjeri people have fought for decades for recognition and respect, and have been at the forefront of protecting culture and country in Melbourne and surrounds,” he said.

Elder Uncle Andrew Gardiner added, “We are doing this for our ancestors and for our future generations.”

Native title is the legal recognition of the traditional rights and interests that Indigenous people have over land and waters according to their own laws and customs.

It would grant the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people greater opportunities to exercise their traditional rights, such as fishing, gathering resources, caring for the country, protecting places of significance and maintaining their relationship with land and water. 

A claim does not affect private homes, businesses or public infrastructure and can coexist with other land uses, such as Crown land, reserves and waterways. 

If successful, the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people’s claim would be the eighth native title determination to be granted in Victoria.

It would also make Melbourne the third capital city to be encompassed under a native title claim, following the Kaurna people’s recognition over an area including Adelaide in 2018 and the Noongar people over an area including Perth in 2021. 

The National Native Title Tribunal will now decide whether to register the claim.

The Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung elders intend to work with the state government and neighbouring traditional owner groups to reach an agreement.

All claims, including the seven previously granted and the several currently before the courts, encompass the majority of Victoria.