Nominations open today for Traditional Owners of Country in Victoria to stand as candidates for the second term of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria.  

The Assembly represents Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people on the journey to Treaty in Victoria and will hold its General Elections from 13 May to 3 June this year. 

Assembly Co-Chair and proud Nira illim bulluk man of the Taungurung Nation, Marcus Stewart, said the foundations and process for Treaty-making was now in place and the next Assembly would be tasked with negotiating the actual statewide Treaty.  

“This election is self-determination in action. If you’re a Traditional Owner, please, consider putting your hand up to stand as a candidate to help make sure Treaty delivers tangible improvements for the lives of our people. Treaty won’t negotiate itself, we need people to stand up and represent our mob on this incredible journey,” Mr Stewart said.  

As well as negotiating a statewide Treaty, in its next term the Assembly will help empower the diverse Traditional Owner groups in Victoria to negotiate Treaties in their areas that reflect specific aspirations and priorities.  

Assembly Co-Chair and Bangerang and Wiradjuri Elder, Aunty Geraldine Atkinson, said the upcoming Assembly Elections are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s opportunity to choose who they want negotiating Treaty in Victoria. 

“This is it! We’ve been fighting for this for generations. All our work has led to this moment where Treaty is finally within our reach. Now we need all mob to get behind the Assembly Elections. Enrol with us, nominate if you’re keen, and most importantly, vote. Every vote counts, and everyone is invited to be part of this shared journey,” said Aunty Geraldine. 

The nomination period for candidates will be from 3 to 24 April 2023. Voting will take place from 13 May to 3 June 2023, with mob able to cast votes in person, online or in the post.  

“Those who stand as candidates and are elected to the next term of the Assembly will negotiate a statewide Treaty with the Victorian Government that improves the lives of our kids through truth-telling, better education, more jobs, affordable housing, better health, and justice for our people,” said Aunty Geraldine. 

Learn more about the Assembly Elections at www.TreatyElections.org.