The First Peoples' Assembly have announced the inaugural reserved seat holder representing the Wamba Wemba Aboriginal Corporation, in a significant step for the 'voice' of Indigenous people in Victoria.
Lowana Moore became the first reserved seat holder to hold a guaranteed seat on the Assembly without recognition from the state government, after a unanimous decision in March.
Representing the Traditional Owners of Country in north-west Victoria, the Wamba Wamba/Wemba Wemba peoples, the Assembly said Ms Moore, the current Wamba Wemba Aboriginal Corporation chairperson, brings a wealth of experience to the role.
"Our ancestors have walked and cared for our Country for thousands of years," Ms Moore said.
"It is now our responsibility to continue in their footsteps and maintain our cultural connection to Country for future generations."
Assembly co-chair Rueben Berg said the voices of the Wamba Wemba people would be strongly represented by Ms Moore, ensuring their perspectives are included in the upcoming Treaty negotiations with the state government.
"We are thrilled to welcome Lowana and the Wamba Wemba people to the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria," the Gunditjmara man said.
"Lowana's rich cultural heritage and strong community leadership will be invaluable as we work together to achieve meaningful outcomes for all First Nations people in Victoria."
Ms Moore said she was dedicated to "empowering" her people through "regular and respectful engagement with individuals, families, youth, adults, and Elders".
"I am passionate about building the capacity of our young people so that they too can feel proud to represent our culture, traditional lands and waterways."
The decision by the Assembly to recognise an Aboriginal party not considered a Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP) by the Victorian government was a significant step, arguing in March that they wanted to "make sure everyone's voice is heard and that our cultural ways of doing business are front and centre".
Ms Moore said at the time that the decision would "give hope" and help pave the way for "other Traditional Owner Groups that are not recognised by the State".
Fellow co-chair, Ngarra Murray, said Ms Moore's appointment was another voice representing the diverse opinions and views of First Peoples across the state.
"I'm very much looking forward to working alongside Lowanna and I'm excited to hear her contributions and the unique perspectives she will bring to the table," the Wamba Wemba, Yorta Yorta, Dhudhuroa and Dja Dja Wurrung woman said.
"We are a diverse mob here in Victoria made up of many nations and clans and we want to make sure everyone is heard."
Ms Moore's first appearance and inaugural speech as the Wamba Wemba representative will take place this week at the Assembly meeting in Portland on Gunditjmara Country.
