What could the Victorian treaty framework mean for the state government?
The treaty framework could mandate new policy and budget commitments for the state government. The treaty framework establishes a foundational covenant between First Peoples and the state, creating specific obligations for the government. This includes guaranteeing funding for Gellung Warl, an independent statutory body, which receives just over $70 million a year, indexed for inflation. Furthermore, the framework creates political leverage and obligations that, if the government reneges on them, could lead to legal action. Conversely, reports indicate that dismantling the statutory framework associated with the treaty could save the state’s budget $247.8 million over four years.
- Effect
- Mixed
- How direct
- Stated in the reporting
- When
- Over the long term
- The story
- Gone quiet
How it reaches government
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A statewide treaty was established between First Peoples and the Crown in Victoria, setting out terms for a new relationship between Aboriginal people and the state. This treaty has gained significant prominence in the state election. Ngarra Murray, who was involved in the assembly, stated that while legislation can be repealed, the agreement made in good faith cannot be undone.
The full event1independent outlet -
The treaty sets out the terms of a new relationship between black and white Victoria and establishes Gellung Warl, an independent statutory body. This body is guaranteed funding of just over $70 million a year, indexed for inflation. The treaty also creates obligations that, if the government reneges on them, can lead to legal action.
1 report connects these two. Brind only summarizes; follow a link to read the reporting itself.
- smh.com.au Oct 1
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system or group of people governing an organized community, often a state
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The facts so far
As reported. Each one links to where it comes from.
- Dismantling the entire statutory framework associated with treaty would save the state’s budget $247.8 million over the four years of the next government.smh.com.au
- The Statewide Treaty Act guaranteed Gellung Warl funding of just over $70 million a year, indexed for inflation.smh.com.au
- The treaty is a foundational document, solemnly undertaken by First Peoples in Victoria and the state government.smh.com.au
- Only 1 per cent of people living in Victoria identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander according to the last Census.smh.com.au
Why it matters
The treaty represents a profound social policy change aimed at establishing a constructive relationship and achieving self-determination for Aboriginal Victoria. This goal is not merely political; it is tied to improving socio-economic circumstances and outcomes, which, according to the Treaty Authority, carries an enormous financial burden for all Victorians if not addressed.
The debate over the treaty has become a central feature of the state election, particularly in Liberal-held marginal seats like Kew and Hawthorn. This political tension highlights a conflict between the progressive sensitivities of traditional voters and the opposition's pledge to abolish the treaty, making the fulfillment of these commitments a critical political and moral test for the government.
What we don't know yet
- Will the government choose to uphold the treaty commitments or pursue the potential budget savings?
- What specific legal mechanisms could be used if the government fails to honor the treaty's commitments?
What would change this answer
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Reporting
- smh.com.auOct 1
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