Victoria is set to introduce historic treaty legislation aimed at empowering the state's First Peoples. The bill will be formally presented in parliament today. If approved, it will establish a permanent First Peoples' Assembly under a new authority called Gellung Warl.

The assembly was created in 2019 to allow Aboriginal people to negotiate a treaty on their behalf. It will have the authority to create rules on issues that directly impact First Peoples in Victoria. The treaty emphasizes that it is based on the principle that "First Peoples decide First Peoples' issues" and asserts that it will not detract from the rights of others.

The treaty states, "The State has made the commitment to Treaty because when First Peoples thrive, all of Victoria is stronger, fairer, and more whole. Treaty is not a gift given, but a commitment made — to practical change, to shared progress, and to a future in which dignity and opportunity belong to all."

Gellung Warl will also include two additional bodies to ensure government accountability and to continue the truth-telling efforts of the Yoorrook Justice Commission. A new curriculum will be developed for primary and secondary students, focusing on the history and culture of Victoria's First Peoples, based on the findings of the Yoorrook Commission.

The new authority will be funded through a special appropriation act, receiving tens of millions of dollars annually once fully operational. It will oversee consultations with all state-funded entities, including law enforcement, regarding policies affecting First Peoples.

The treaty acknowledges the ongoing impact of historical injustices, stating, "The injustices that began with colonisation — dispossession, racism, and discrimination — continue to shape the lives of First Peoples today. Treaty is the next step through that door. It is not about dwelling in the past, nor laying blame. It is about acknowledging that the past still shapes the present and choosing to do better from here."

Gellung Warl will operate under the same oversight as the government, monitored by the anti-corruption watchdog IBAC and the ombudsman. The new body is expected to be fully operational by July 1 of next year, with elections for the new Assembly scheduled before that date.

A joint statement from assembly co-chairs Ngarra Murray and Rueben Berg, along with Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister Natalie Hutchins, highlighted the importance of involving First Peoples in decision-making processes. "Policies and programs work best when the people affected by them have a say in how they are delivered — that's why this Bill proposes to put decision-making power about initiatives and services that impact First Peoples into the hands of First Peoples' Assembly."

The bill also aims to create an independent accountability mechanism, as outlined in the National Agreement to Close the Gap. The treaty process began a decade ago under former Premier Daniel Andrews, making Victoria the first state to introduce such legislation. It draws inspiration from treaties established by First Nations in other countries, particularly in British Columbia, Canada.

However, the Coalition has announced its intention to vote against the treaty. Opposition Leader Brad Battin compared it to the recent Voice referendum, which saw a majority of Victorians voting against the proposal. Battin criticized the government for allegedly rushing the bill through parliament without adequate scrutiny. He stated, "We remain committed to working with Indigenous communities to close the gap and deliver better outcomes for everyone — regardless of race, gender or background."

Despite the Coalition's opposition, the treaty has garnered support from the Greens, Animal Justice Party, and Legalise Cannabis Party in the upper house.