The Victorian government and the First Peoples’ Assembly have confirmed plans to make the assembly a permanent body with decision-making powers under a statewide treaty bill to be introduced to parliament this year. The assembly, formed in 2018 to represent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in treaty discussions, will gain authority to advise ministers, manage community infrastructure grants, and make appointments to government boards.
Under the proposed legislation, the assembly will be able to provide advice to the government, question ministers, and make representations on issues directly affecting First Peoples. Ministers and departments will be required to consult the assembly on laws and policies specifically directed at Aboriginal people. However, the assembly will not have veto power, as such authority does not exist under Victoria’s parliamentary system.
The expanded role includes confirming Aboriginality, overseeing the Aboriginal community infrastructure program, managing the Victorian Aboriginal honour roll, and organising events like NAIDOC Week. The assembly will also make statutory appointments for First Peoples’ seats on government boards, such as the Heritage Council of Victoria, and continue the truth-telling work of the Yoorrook Justice Commission by capturing stories and maintaining an archive for public education.
If passed, the assembly will become a statutory corporation, subject to oversight by bodies including the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission, the Victorian auditor general, and the ombudsman. It will be required to publicly report on its election processes, participatory governance, and cultural oversight from elders.
Victoria would become the second state in Australia to have a permanent Indigenous voice to parliament, following South Australia in 2023. This comes after a failed 2023 federal referendum on an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, which saw 60% of Australians vote no. The state opposition leader, Brad Battin, has criticised the move, accusing the government of lacking transparency and trying to bury the announcement. However, the Greens, Animal Justice Party, and Legalise Cannabis have indicated support, ensuring the bill’s passage through the upper house without needing opposition backing.
