An independent Treaty Authority is to be established in a new Bill introduced following an historic agreement between the Government and the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria.
Introducing the Treaty Authority and Other Treaty Elements Bill 2022, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Gabrielle Williams said the Bill would allow the Treaty Authority to be established as an ‘independent umpire’ to oversee negotiations between the Government and Aboriginal Victorians.
“While established by agreement, the Bill gives the Treaty Authority the legal powers necessary to facilitate Treaty negotiations and resolve any disputes between parties,” Ms Williams said.
“The Treaty Authority will be a nation-leading institution without precedent, drawing on international best practice but adapted for Victoria to ensure Aboriginal lore, law and cultural authority are observed and upheld,” she said.
“The legislation is the result of deep engagement and negotiation between the Government and the First Peoples’ Assembly, the democratically elected body representing Traditional Owners and Aboriginal Victorians to progress Treaty in Victoria.”
Ms Williams said agreement on the Treaty Authority would be marked with a ceremonial signing with the First Peoples’ Assembly.
“The introduction of the Treaty Authority Bill into Parliament is another vital step towards Treaty and a significant milestone in Victoria’s nation-leading efforts to achieve genuine self-determination for Aboriginal Victorians,” the Minister said.
“Together with the First Peoples’ Assembly, we are establishing an independent Treaty Authority with the ability to deliver an innovative approach to Treaty negotiations based on Aboriginal lore, law and cultural authority.”
Co-Chair of the First Peoples’ Assembly, Marcus Stewart said the Government was relinquishing some of its control and power.
“Together we are creating new institutions that will be guided by Aboriginal lore, law and cultural authority that has been practised on these lands for countless generations,” Mr Stewart said.
