For the first time in Australia's history, a Treaty has been signed with First Peoples. The Treaty will commence on 12 December, at a ceremonial exchange between the government and First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria at a public event in Federation Square.
You can find the preamble to the Statewide Treaty below, as well as a link to the full document.
Preamble
The place we now call Victoria holds the oldest living cultures on Earth – a truth that belongs to all Victorians and a legacy to uphold with pride. Victoria today is shared by many cultures, each adding to the richness of its story. One of Victoria’s greatest strengths is its courage to face the truth – to listen with open hearts, and to move forward with honesty.
Yet the relationship between First Peoples and the State of Victoria has been profoundly shaped by colonisation and its enduring harm. Our shared history bears the weight of injustice, dispossession, disruption of Country and acts that sought to erase First Peoples and silence cultures. The Yoorrook Justice Commission revealed how deeply this pain and trauma runs – and how it continues to shape lives, families, and communities today.
We stand together committed to a better future – one that is just, fair, and equitable, and honours the rightful place of First Peoples.
Treaty is how we make that future possible.
This Statewide Treaty marks a moment of truth and courage. It brings together the First Peoples of these lands and waters – through the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria – and the State of Victoria on behalf of all Victorians, to forge a renewed and enduring relationship built on respect, trust, accountability and integrity. It invites every Victorian – no matter their background or how long they’ve called this place home – to be part of a shared future grounded in justice, understanding and unity.
This Statewide Treaty honours the unbroken relationship of First Peoples to Country, and to Aboriginal Lore, Law and Cultural Authority. These obligations have been carried faithfully since the first sunrise. The ancient stories of these lands, waters, skies and stars still speak to those willing to listen – and the more we come to know them, the better we can care for Country together.
Treaty is an opportunity to listen, to learn, and to affirm the rightful place of First Peoples as decision-makers of their own futures, on their own Country. It recognises the need for meaningful change – enabling self-determination to flourish, for the good of all.
The First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, as the elected representative body for First Peoples, carries forward the collective strength of First Peoples’ communities and nations. The Elders and Ancestors who came before us lit the fires that guide First Peoples still – this Treaty for the generations affirms the enduring presence and rights of First Peoples – a flame that will never be extinguished.
The State of Victoria enters this Treaty to reckon with the past, to create lasting change, and to build a stronger, fairer future for everyone lucky enough to find belonging in this land. This is a place of ideas and energy – a state alive with culture, creativity, and difference – where people come not just to live, but to belong. It is only in a place like this, bold enough to face hard truths and generous enough to imagine something better, that the words of this Treaty could be scribed.
This Statewide Treaty marks a new beginning – an invitation to walk forward together, guided by truth, integrity and determination.
Through Treaty, we build a better future for all.
Read Victoria's Statewide Treaty
Treaty is an opportunity to come to grips with the history we share – and create a better and fairer future together.
Find out more about Victoria's Treaty
What is Treaty?
A treaty is an agreement between two or more parties. Treaties between First Peoples and governments have been signed in many countries, like New Zealand and Canada.
What Treaty delivers
Treaty is about making a better and fairer state for all Victorians, by ensuring First Peoples have a say over the policies that impact them and their families.