Recognising First Nations leadership and Treaty in Victoria

In Victoria, that leadership is reflected in the statewide Treaty.  

Signed in November 2025, this Treaty marks an important milestone in a long-term process led by Aboriginal communities and centred on self-determination.

Treaty is about creating more accountable systems where First Nations people have a greater say in the decisions that affect their lives, cultures and communities.

What having a Victorian Statewide Treaty means

Victoria’s Treaty reflects what Aboriginal leaders have long called for: a fairer relationship between the state and First Nations people, built on respect and accountability.

Ngarra Murray, a Wamba Wemba, Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Wurrung woman who was co-chair of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria at the time said following the signing on November 13, 2025:

“Today marks a turning point in our nation’s history; a moment where old wounds can begin to heal and new relationships can be built on truth, justice and mutual respect.”

She has described Treaty as a binding promise that shifts the relationship between the state and First Nations people away from colonial authority and toward legal equality.

“The Treaty means a future where children grow up proud of who they are, knowing their rights are honoured.”

First Nations leadership and voices

The Treaty framework establishes a permanent, First Nations-led institutions that change how Victoria operatesbody, Gellung Warl, which includes the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, as well as ongoing commitments to First Nations oversight of government, and .  

These structures are designed to ensure Aboriginal expertise directly informs laws and policies, and that commitments made through Treaty are monitored and upheld over time.

Rueben Berg, Gunditjmara man and former co-chair of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, has emphasised the importance of self-determination in this process:

“When we sat there at the table next to Premier and the Minister to sign the Treaty, we sat there as equals.”

“Through this self-determined process we are putting in place, we can deliver better outcomes and equality for our people.”

These changes are intended to support long-term improvements across areas such as housing, economic opportunity and cultural safety.

Supporting First Nations recognition and respect

Bank Australia has appreciated the opportunity to support First Nations-led initiatives on the path to Treaty - like Treaty Day Out in Victoria, and Travis Lovett's Victorian and National Walk for Truth.

We acknowledge the significance of Victoria’s Treaty journey and the leadership of First Nations people who continue to carry this work forward.

Find out more about Bank Australia’s First Nations Recognition and Respect Strategy.