The Aboriginal Victorians Bill 2018 clearly identifies that the state of Victoria “acknowledges Victorian traditional owners as the first peoples”. In addition, that the state recognizes “the diversity of Aboriginal Victorians, their communities and cultures, and the intrinsic connection of traditional owners to the Country.” It also outlines the understanding between the Aboriginal representative body and the state with respect to the treaty negotiation framework.
The Treaty Negotiation Framework
The Aboriginal representative body together with the Victorian state must ensure that the negotiation of treaties or treaties:
(a) recognize historic wrongs; and
(b) address ongoing injustices; and
(c) help heal wounds of the past; and
(d) support for reconciliation; and
(e) bring pride to Victorians; and
(f) have positive impacts for Victoria; and
(g) promote the fundamental human rights of Aboriginal peoples, including the right to self-determination; and
(h) acknowledge the importance of culture to Aboriginal identity; and
(i) enhance the laws of Victoria
While we celebrate the Victorian bill, it’s important to remember that this is only an expected and required action that should have occurred long ago.