Victoria Signs Historic Treaty with Indigenous Peoples, Marking a New Era of Reconciliation

In a significant step towards reconciliation, the state of Victoria in Australia signed its first official treaty with Indigenous peoples on Thursday, November 13, 2025. This landmark agreement sets a national precedent following years of discussions and calls for recognition and justice.

The treaty, which is set to take effect on December 12, includes an official apology from the state government to Indigenous peoples for historical injustices. It also establishes a permanent representative body known as the "Indigenous Peoples Association," which will advise the state government on laws and policies affecting Indigenous communities, although it will not have veto power.

During the signing ceremony in Melbourne, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan stated:

"Today marks a new chapter in our state's history. This treaty is not merely an official document; it is a commitment to a more just and respectful future for all Victorians."

This agreement is seen as a groundbreaking move for Australia, which has lagged behind other colonial nations such as the United States, Canada, and New Zealand, all of which have established similar treaties with their Indigenous populations for decades.

Approximately one million Indigenous peoples reside in Australia, facing significant social and economic disparities compared to the broader population, including lower levels of education, health, income, and life expectancy.

The treaty follows a national referendum in 2023, where 60% of Australian voters and all six states rejected a proposal to include an advisory body for Indigenous peoples in the constitution, a setback for national reconciliation efforts.

The discussions surrounding the treaty began in 2016, with extensive consultations between the state government and Indigenous representatives. The state parliament passed the relevant legislation last October, paving the way for this historic achievement.

With this treaty, Victoria becomes the first Australian state to officially recognize Indigenous peoples as partners in shaping their future, a move many hope will lead to similar agreements in other states in the coming years.

"Today is not the end of the journey, but rather its beginning"; concluded Jacinta Allan, emphasizing that true reconciliation requires ongoing commitment to justice and mutual respect.