VACCHO extends its congratulations to Jess Wilson on her historic election as the first woman to lead the Victorian Liberal party.

VACCHO CEO, Dr Jill Gallagher AO says VACCHO is pleased to work with anyone willing to listen to Aboriginal Communities and invest in Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.

“I look forward to working together with Ms Wilson, and I hope the Coalition’s renewed leadership brings with it, a fresh approach to engaging with and listening to Aboriginal communities across Victoria.

“We need leaders who listen deeply and act decisively, not dismiss the lived experiences of Aboriginal communities who deserve action that delivers meaningful health and wellbeing outcomes,” Dr Gallagher said.

VACCHO reaffirms its commitment to working with all political Leaders to improve the lives of Aboriginal people. Dr Gallagher is, however, deeply disappointed to hear Ms Wilson say that she would repeal Treaty if the Coalition were to form government at next year’s state election.

The Productivity Commission’s Closing the Gap review has recognised that Aboriginal people are the experts on our own lives and Communities, highlighting that the Victorian Treaty model as an example of best practice.

“I encourage Ms Wilson and indeed all Victorians, to take great pride in the fact that they live in a country with the oldest continuous living culture in the world- and listen to the wisdom that is found in that culture and Community.”