Call for Victoria’s First Peoples to oversee state’s treaty negotiations

Callan Morse
Callan Morse Published August 14, 2023 at 4.00pm (AWST)

First Nations Victorians are being invited to nominate for the state's Treaty Authority, which will oversee negotiations between Aborignal Victorians and the state government.

Nominations for five positions are being sought, with successful nominees to work in a collective leadership model to establish, guide and deliver the state's new Treaty Authority.

The Treaty Authority has been designed as the 'independent umpire' to ensure a fair treaty process in Victoria, established under the Treaty Authority Agreement to facilitate negotiations and resolve any disputes.

Comprising of Karinda Taylor, Eddie Cubillo, Marcus Clarke, Richard Wynne, and Aunty Vicki Clark, the independent panel tasked with appointing the five-member Treaty Authority was announced in May.

Proud Wamba Wamba woman and Senior Panellist of the Treaty Authority Panel Karinda Taylor said as the first of its kind, the Treaty Authority has the chance to pave the way for treaty in Victoria.

"The Treaty Authority is a new and unique entity that presents an incredible opportunity for leaders in our community to step forward and help us get Treaty done," Ms Taylor said.

"We're looking for people with cultural knowledge to develop fit-for-purpose and culturally strong governance and uphold Aboriginal Law, Lore and Cultural Authority."

A nation-leading institution, the Treaty Authority draws on international best practice, adapted for Victoria to ensure Aboriginal lore, law and cultural authority are observed and upheld.

The Victorian government was required to create the independent Treaty Authority after relevant legislation passed in 2018. It was then legislated under the Treaty Authority and Other Treaty Elements Bill 2022.

Victorian Minister for Treaty and First Peoples, Gabrielle Williams, said the Authority will play a vital role on the pathway to treaty in Victoria.

"The inaugural Treaty Authority members will play a crucial role in building the trust and support of all Victorians for this important and historic process that will make Victoria a fairer place for everyone," Ms Williams said.

"The establishment of the Treaty Authority creates opportunities to build understanding and dialogue with the whole of the Victorian community about Treaty-making in Victoria."

Nominations for the five inaugural members of the Treaty Authority are currently open, and will close on Monday 28 August.

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