Victoria Passes Australia’s First Treaty with First Peoples

In a historic milestone for Australia, Victoria’s State Parliament has passed the nation’s first Treaty with First Peoples — marking a decade-long journey toward recognition, accountability, and self-determination. This is a landmark agreement empowering Aboriginal communities with decision-making authority, accountability, and self-determination, paving the way for truth-telling, healing, and shared progress.

The Treaty, established through the Gellung Warl, will empower First Peoples with decision-making authority over issues affecting their communities, ensure government accountability, and embed a process of truth-telling and healing.

It includes three key bodies:

• The First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, representing and advocating for Aboriginal communities.
• Nyerna Yoorrook Telkuna, continuing the truth-telling work of the Yoorrook Justice Commission.
• Nginma Ngainga Wara, a new Outcomes and Justice Commission to independently oversee government actions and progress.

Future legislation relevant to First Peoples will also need to pass a new “statement of Treaty compatibility,” ensuring consultation with the Assembly.
The Treaty will be formally signed on 13 November, with a public celebration on 12 December at Federation Square. Outcomes include the establishment of a First Peoples’ Institute to nurture future leaders, reinstatement of traditional place names, and the inclusion of true First Nations history in Victoria’s school curriculum.

Philanthropy has played a vital role in bringing the Treaty to life. Advisors and sector leaders, including Regina Hill and Philanthropy Australia CEO Maree Sidey, are calling for continued funding and advocacy to help the new Gellung Warl body succeed.

First Peoples’ Assembly Co-Chair Ngarra Murray described the Treaty as “a rupture in our national story” — a step toward healing and shared progress. “Treaty is a chance for all Victorians to acknowledge our shared history, heal and move forward together,” she said.

In essence, the passing of this Treaty represents a profound shift in power and partnership — one that honours resilience, amplifies self-determination, and lays the groundwork for a more equitable future between First Peoples and the Victorian Government.