Human Rights Commissioner welcomes Australia’s first treaty with indigenous peoples

Turk said in a statement issued on Monday “This is a momentous occasion for all Australians. It represents a major step towards justice and equality. It addresses the continued exclusion and discrimination of the country’s First Peoples, caused by colonialism.”.

The state-level treaty provides for the establishment of a permanent, democratically elected First Nations Assembly, known as the Geelong Warl, which will also include a fact-finding body called Nirna Yurok Telkona, and an accountability body known as Nginma Nginga Wara.

The High Commissioner explained that this step follows the call for constitutional recognition and giving a voice to indigenous peoples launched by indigenous leaders in 2017.

Turk said “Victoria is leading a truly transformative initiative that ensures Indigenous peoples have a direct voice in advising and shaping laws, policies and practices that impact their lives, in line with Australia’s international human rights obligations.”.

He added that now is the time to move forward with the implementation of the Treaty and accompanying legislation, to make a real difference in the lives of Indigenous peoples in Victoria.

The High Commissioner further said: “I hope this will inspire other leaders in Australia and beyond to adopt similar measures to recognize Indigenous peoples through inclusive governance and innovative mechanisms for engagement and reconciliation. All of this ultimately promotes a society based on mutual respect and human rights for all.”.