We proudly acknowledge the First Peoples of Victoria as the Traditional Owners and custodians of the land, waters and skies on which we live and work. We honour and pay our respects to Elders past and present.
We recognise the strength and resilience of First Peoples in the face of historical and ongoing injustices, and the survival of their living cultures, knowledges and traditions. We also acknowledge the experiences and contributions of First Peoples with disability, and the crucial role of their families, communities and caregivers.
Pursuit of Treaty and Truth
The Victorian Government recognises that First Peoples have endured historical and ongoing injustices, including racism and discrimination, and have been excluded from social and economic opportunities.
We acknowledge that the systems and structures of colonisation have caused harm to First Peoples, including First Peoples with disability. We know we still have much to learn about the intersection of ableism, racism, dispossession and colonisation.
In working towards Treaty, we are committed to acknowledging the truth of Victoria’s past and present through the work of the Yoorrook Justice Commission and the lived experience of First Peoples.
We know Truth and Treaty seek to enable self-determination for First Peoples in Victoria, including Traditional Owners. Victoria’s pathway to Treaty recognises that First Peoples are best placed to make decisions about their own futures.
We will continue to listen and learn as we move forward with a shared understanding of our past and our present and work together towards better outcomes for all Victorians.
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