Victoria Signs Historic First Contract with Indigenous Peoples

In a landmark development for reconciliation, the Australian state of Victoria signed the first official contract in the country’s history with Indigenous peoples on Thursday, November 13, 2025. This agreement sets a precedent for Australia, which has lagged behind other colonial nations like the United States, Canada, and New Zealand in formalizing such arrangements.

The contract, set to take effect on December 12, includes a formal apology from the state government to Indigenous peoples for historical injustices. It also establishes a permanent advisory body known as the "First Peoples Assembly," which will provide guidance on laws and policies affecting Indigenous communities, although it will not have veto power.

Jacinta Allan, Premier of Victoria, remarked during the signing ceremony in Melbourne:

"Today marks a new chapter in our state’s history. This contract is not just a formal document; it represents a commitment to a fairer and more respectful future for all Victorians."

This agreement comes two years after a national referendum in 2023, where 60% of Australian voters rejected a proposal to include an Indigenous advisory body in the constitution, which was seen as a setback for national reconciliation efforts.

Discussions leading to Victoria's contract began in 2016, with extensive consultations between the state government and Indigenous representatives. The state parliament passed the necessary legislation last October, paving the way for this historic achievement.

With this signing, Victoria becomes the first Australian state to officially recognize Indigenous peoples as partners in shaping their future, with hopes that this will inspire similar agreements in other states in the coming years.

"Today is not the end of the journey, but the beginning";

Jacinta Allan concluded her speech, emphasizing that true reconciliation requires ongoing commitment to justice and mutual respect.