Victoria’s First Peoples including those from Wyndham are invited to nominate for the Treaty Authority which will oversee Treaty negotiations between the state government and Aboriginal Victorians.
Treaty and First Peoples Minister Gabrielle Williams has welcomed the announcement that the independent panel appointed to recruit Treaty Authority members is seeking nominations for five First Peoples who will work together in a collective leadership model to establish, guide and deliver the new Treaty Authority.
“The establishment of the Treaty Authority creates opportunities to build understanding and dialogue with the whole of the Victorian community about Treaty-making in Victoria,” she said.
“The inaugural Treaty Authority members will play a crucial role in building the trust and support of all Victorians for this important and historic process that will make Victoria a fairer place for everyone.”
The ‘independent umpire’ to ensure a fair treaty process, the Treaty Authority was established under the Treaty Authority Agreement to facilitate negotiations and resolve any disputes.
In May, an independent panel was appointed by the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria and the Labor Government to oversee the selection process of Treaty Authority members. The panel includes Karinda Taylor, Eddie Cubillo, Marcus Clarke, Richard Wynne, and Aunty Vicki Clark OAM.
A nation-leading institution, the Treaty Authority draws on international best practice, adapted for Victoria to ensure Aboriginal lore, law and cultural authority are observed and upheld.
Under the Advancing the Treaty Process with Aboriginal Victorians Act 2018, the Government was required to create an independent Treaty Authority – it was then legislated under the Treaty Authority and Other Treaty Elements Bill 2022.
Wamba Wamba woman and Senior Panellist of the Treaty Authority Panel Karinda Taylor said the Treaty Authority is a new and unique entity that presents an incredible opportunity for leaders in the community to step forward and help get Treaty done.
“We’re looking for people with cultural knowledge to develop fit-for-purpose and culturally strong governance and uphold Aboriginal Law, Lore and Cultural Authority,” she said.
Nominations for the five inaugural members of the Treaty Authority are now open and will close on Monday, August 28.
For more information on how to apply, or to nominate a candidate to be a Treaty Authority Member, email IndigCareers.
Details: treaty@indigcareers.com.au
