The Koorie Youth Council (KYC) is pleased that Treaty has passed both legislative chambers. KYC believes in the future of Treaty for Victorian communities, children, and young people.
KYC wishes to acknowledge we have not previously formally released a statement on Treaty, and we recognise our responsibility to the young people we represent to stand up, show up, and speak up.
As young mob, we know this movement has been decades in the making. In the footsteps of giants, KYC extends our deepest congratulations to all Elders, leaders, and members of the Koorie community who have been tirelessly working towards our shared goal of self-determination, justice, and truth-telling through formal Truth-Telling process of the Yoorrook Justice Commission and Treaty. We congratulate the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, the Co-Chairs, Treaty Authority and everyone who has been involved.
We have now entered the Treaty era, and we look forward to walking with the Victorian Aboriginal community towards better outcomes for our young people and communities. For decades, our Elders have only ever dreamed of this day finally arriving, and we are now moving towards this dream—the dream of the Old People.
Not only is this Victoria’s first Treaty; it is also Australia’s first Treaty too. This Treaty is a ‘reset’ in relationship between the Koorie community and the Victorian Government. It is also important to acknowledge that globally First Peoples have a complicated and layered relationship with treaties. So, what does this mean for us in a contemporary sense?
Australia was the only country colonised by the British which never had a formalised treaty with First Peoples. This has irrevocably damaged and harmed our people and communities to the point where, not only is our population been impacted, but we are also some of the most discriminated peoples on the globe.
Since the official signing of Treaty last week, the state will now set up a representative body, Gellung Warl, meaning ‘tip of the spear’ in Gunaikurnai. Gellung Warl has three arms:
- The First Peoples Assembly, a democratically elected body which will represent Indigenous people to parliament and be consulted on laws and policies.
- Nyerna Yoorrook Telkuna, which will continue truth-telling work of the Yoorrook Justice Commission.
- Nginma Ngainga Wara, meaning ‘you will do’ in Wadi Wadi language, which is an accountability arm that will watch the work of government to close the gap. They will be able to conduct hearings and inquiries.
Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Cooperation (DJARRA) have become the first Traditional Owner group to register intent to negotiate a Traditional Owner Treaty. KYC encourages the young people living on Dja Dja Wurrung Country to get contact with their treaty representative and express their views and aspirations for their communities.
KYC reminds Gellung Warl that they now have a democratic obligation to represent all members of the community through all levels of their work; we encourage sitting members, both past, present and future, that, in relation to the aspirations, the onus of responsibility cannot be placed squarely on the shoulders of young people. It is a responsibility held by the entire community.
Treaty is more than law; it is a symbol of recognition that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are equal in Australian society. We are sovereign people, strengthened by all who came before us, and we will continue to hold the government accountable.
Quote attributable to Bonnie Dukakis, CEO KYC:
“Treaty has been a long journey for our people. As young mob, we are stepping into a new era where the possibility for a thriving future for our young people and children is a step closer. KYC will walk alongside the work being done by our Elders and community leaders, to ensure that our young mob are safe, seen, and heard.”
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