Victorian Treaty push gathers pace with call for allies

The Victorian government hopes to introduce a statewide treaty bill to Parliament later this year and is working with the First Peoples’ Assembly to drive the process.

To update supporters on progress, and advise on how potential allies can become involved, the First Peoples’ Assembly is holding online briefings over the coming weeks.

The first is this week, on Thursday, July 31, from 12 noon to 1pm, where NGOs, not-for-profits, unions and community groups can hear about how to get on board as supporters.

A second briefing, for “allies”, such as individuals or families, will be held on Thursday, August 14, from 6pm to 7pm.

“One of the many consistent conversations I’ve had on this journey is allies asking, ‘How can I do more?’” said the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria’s co-chair, Gunditjmara man Reuben Berg. “In Victoria we’re leading the way nationwide with Treaty. If you want to do more, get on board and show up for what matters, listen and learn about Treaty. Be a part of a cause for our collective future.”

This Thursday’s online briefing will detail a Friends of Treaty initiative designed to offer organisations a path to formalise their support through a public Treaty pledge, as well as outlining ways they can take concrete action.