The Andrews Labor Government is encouraging more Aboriginal organisations to get involved and be part of the state’s historic Treaty process.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gavin Jennings said Aboriginal organisations are now invited to apply for the third round of the Treaty Community Engagement Program.
The program supports Traditional Owners groups, organisations and businesses to engage with communities and have their voices heard.
Already, the program has seen almost $2 million provided to 26 groups across the state since 2018.
Legislation passed the Victorian Parliament last year stating a formal intent to negotiate a treaty with Aboriginal people – the first of its kind in Australia.
It’s vital this process – and the establishment of the Aboriginal Representative Body – continues to be guided by Aboriginal voices.
The program will help support self-determination and build the capacity of local groups in preparation for the next stages of the process.
Insights obtained through the program will be used by the Victorian Treaty Advancement Commission as it works to establish the Aboriginal Representative Body.
Eligible groups can apply for funding through two streams:
- Treaty Circle Grants, which will support small, community-led consultations on key Treaty issues
- Treaty Engagement Grants, which will support in-depth, ongoing engagement with Victorian Aboriginal communities, as well as research.
The Labor Government has provided more than $37.5 million to support the Treaty process and promote self-determination among Victorian Aboriginal communities.
For more information or to apply, please visit vic.gov.au/aboriginalvictoria.
As stated by Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gavin Jennings
“The path to Treaty must be guided by Aboriginal Victorians – this funding is about empowering them to be heard.”
“This is our commitment to self-determination put into practice.”
As noted by Victorian Treaty Advancement Commissioner Jill Gallagher AO
“Aboriginal Victorians need to be heard on matters that affect their lives. Funding Aboriginal organisations to consult and engage on the treaty process is fundamental to the success of the treaty process in Victoria”
