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Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has issued a formal apology in Victorian parliament for laws, policies and practices that have contributed to injustices against Aboriginal people in the state.
Parliament was recalled for a special sitting to hear the apology, which was recommended by the Yoorrook Justice Commission and committed to under Victoria’s Australian-first statewide treaty.
“To ensure that the wrongs of the past are never repeated, we say sorry,” Allan told the parliament on Tuesday.
She said the apology was about acknowledging past injustices and atrocities against Indigenous people and working towards a better future.
In a poignant address, an influential voice emphasized the need for actions to accompany words, stating, “If this apology is to carry more than words and the intention of members today, then we must certify through what we do next that treaty is not merely a gesture.” This statement underscores the importance of transforming apologies into meaningful change.
Legislation to enable the treaty with Aboriginal people passed parliament in October after terms were agreed to by the state Labor government and First Peoples’ Assembly.
The First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria said the apology would acknowledge “the profound harms inflicted on our peoples by the state and colony — both historic and ongoing”.
“This moment is important,” it said.
Highlighting the path toward reconciliation, Rueben Berg, co-chair of the assembly, reflected on Yoorrook’s crucial role in paving the way to rectify historical injustices. Berg’s remarks point to a future where past wrongs are addressed through tangible efforts and commitments.
The statewide treaty establishes Gellung Warl as a legislated, democratically elected body that must be consulted on laws and policies affecting Aboriginal Victorians.
Other measures include truth-telling in Victorian public schools, a process to rename geographic features with names considered offensive to Aboriginal people and a requirement for new legislation to be assessed for treaty compatibility.
A public celebration will held on Friday evening at Melbourne’s John Cain Arena when treaty officially commences.
Baker Boy, Briggs, Missy Higgins and Yothu Yindi — the band behind 1991 protest song and anthem Treaty — are among the artists slated to perform from 6.30pm to 9pm.
