The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) applauds the passing of the landmark Statewide Treaty Bill in the Victorian Parliament.
VACCHO CEO Dr Jill Gallagher AO says she is proud that Victoria has led the way, becoming Australia’s first state or territory to introduce a Treaty to its Parliament.
“The passing of the Statewide Treaty Bill not only honours the strength and resilience of our Communities, but it marks the beginning of a new chapter in our state’s history.”
“Treaty is not just about recognition – it’s about justice, healing and truth-telling. It’s about a future that we can all be proud of,” she said.
Treaty finally provides a path forward for Aboriginal people to heal from the injustices of the past, to protect Culture and Country, and ensure a fairer and stronger Victoria.
Dr Gallagher played an instrumental role in Victoria’s decade-long path to Treaty, being appointed as the Treaty Advancement Commissioner in 2018. The Treaty Advancement Commission led the delivery of recommendations on the design of the Aboriginal Representative Body, now known as the First People’s Assembly of Victoria.
“Today we celebrate our Elders past and present, our staunch leaders, and our young people who have not stopped fighting for a future where decisions about us are shaped by us and for us,” she said.
As VACCHO celebrates this history making moment, Dr Gallagher encourages all Victorians to walk the path forward together – to build a state that honours the truth, respects its Indigenous Culture, and stands strong with the First Peoples of this state.
“I have long dreamt of being part of a society where all Victorians, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous, can celebrate and enjoy the many benefits that come with belonging to one of the world’s oldest living cultures. I believe Treaty will make that dream a reality,” she said.
