Australia's First Treaty with Aboriginal People: A Landmark in History
The signing of Australia's inaugural treaty with Aboriginal people marks a significant milestone, symbolizing the beginning of a challenging yet transformative journey. This achievement is celebrated as a turning point, according to Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, who emphasizes the treaty's potential to reshape Victoria's future.
The treaty, finalized after years of effort, was signed by Premier Allan, along with Ngarra Murray and Rueben Berg, co-chairpersons of the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria, at a formal ceremony at Government House on Thursday. It received Royal Assent from Governor Margaret Gardner, a pivotal moment in the treaty's journey.
This treaty empowers the state's Indigenous representative body, granting it expanded authority to act as a voice for Aboriginal Victorians in parliament. The body, elected by Aboriginal people, operates independently from the government, with a dedicated space at Parliament House. The treaty's scope extends to the entire state, yet it also facilitates local groups negotiating their own agreements.
Premier Allan highlighted the treaty's unique nature, describing it as a partnership between the world's oldest continuing culture and modern institutions. She stated, 'Today is a recognition that ancient systems of law and the modern institutions of our democracy can stand side by side.' This sentiment underscores the treaty's significance as a symbol of mutual respect and collaboration.
Rueben Berg, expressing gratitude for the advocacy across generations, emphasized the treaty's enduring impact. He said, 'Words are cheap, but these words now in a treaty in legislation, these words cannot disappear.' This sentiment underscores the treaty's commitment to delivering on its promises.
Governor Gardner described the treaty as an expression of the democratic will of the Victorian people and a historic achievement of modern parliamentary democracy. The treaty's passage through the upper house of the state parliament was met with cheers, following a year of negotiations between the government and the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria, prompted by a truth-telling inquiry into the mistreatment of Aboriginal people since colonization.
Despite the treaty's significance, Victoria's coalition opposition has expressed its disapproval, vowing to repeal it if it wins the next state election in November 2026. Melina Bath, a Nationals MP and opposition spokeswoman for Aboriginal affairs, advocates for a standalone body overseen by a minister, arguing for a focus on supporting Aboriginal Victorians in closing the gap.
The treaty's signing will be celebrated publicly in December, marking a pivotal moment in Australia's history and a significant step towards reconciliation and recognition of Aboriginal rights.
