In a powerful and emotional moment, Victoria has become the first Australian state to pass a treaty with its Indigenous communities — a historic milestone that many have been fighting for over generations.
The Victorian Parliament erupted in applause late Thursday night as the landmark bill was approved, marking a long-awaited step toward truth, justice, and reconciliation for Indigenous Australians. Some observers were seen crying, overwhelmed with emotion at witnessing a moment they feared might never come.
The treaty promises transformative change. It will form an elected Indigenous assembly, ensure truth-telling about historical injustices, and create an advisory council dedicated to closing severe health and social inequality gaps.
“This is a historic moment for our people,” said Ngarra Murray from the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria. “We will tell our children about today, and they will tell their children — a story of resilience, strength, and enduring hope.”
Despite representing less than 4% of Australia’s population, Indigenous communities face significant inequalities, including a life expectancy nearly eight years shorter than other Australians, and dramatically higher incarceration and police custody death rates.
For Indigenous leader Jill Gallagher, the day represents a long-fought victory. “History was made,” she shared. “For the first time in my life, I feel my people have hope.”
However, not everyone welcomed the development. Some conservative leaders criticized the decision, claiming the treaty grants unequal rights. Federal Senator Bridget McKenzie labeled it “appalling legislation,” arguing it offers special treatment.
Yet, for many, this moment stands as recognition of a truth long ignored — that Indigenous Australians held sovereignty over this land tens of thousands of years before colonization.
Victoria’s Premier Jacinta Allan called it a defining point in history. “Treaty gives Aboriginal communities the power to shape the policies and services that affect their lives,” she said.
This treaty follows generations of failed attempts at national agreements and comes after voters rejected a constitutional referendum to boost Indigenous representation in 2023. It serves as a reminder that progress is rarely linear — but it is possible when voices persevere.
