Victoria Makes History with First Indigenous Treaty Law

Nov 13, 2025
International

Photo: Protesters in Melbourne, Australia, January 26, 2023 (Collected | Al Jazeera | Getty Images)

International Desk | PNN:

In a historic first, Victoria state in Australia has transformed an agreement with Indigenous peoples into law. On Wednesday evening, members of the First Peoples’ Assembly signed the treaty, which received final approval from Governor Margaret Gardner on Thursday morning.

Jill Gallagher, former Commissioner of Victoria’s Treaty Advancement Commission and a Gunditjmara woman, told Australia’s ABC, “This treaty reflects the story of Indigenous resistance. I am extremely happy and delighted.” She added, “Today marks a turning point in our nation’s history—a moment where old wounds can start to heal, and new relationships can form based on truth, justice, and mutual respect.”

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan described the treaty signing as a “new chapter” in the state’s history, emphasizing that it is based on truth, respect, and partnership.

Although Australia was colonized in 1788 by the British Empire, and other colonized countries like Canada, New Zealand, and the US have signed treaties with Indigenous peoples, this is the first in Australia.

UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk called the treaty “historic,” granting legal recognition to the permanent First Peoples’ Assembly in Victoria. The treaty aims to redefine government-Indigenous relations, establishing long-term partnerships based on mutual respect, justice, and equality.