Victoria’s first Treaty entity, Gellung Warl, is now officially operating, marking a major step in the state’s treaty process and strengthening its relationship with First Peoples communities.

Victorian Minister for First Peoples Ros Spence said Treaty reforms would help build a fairer and more inclusive state.

“Treaty is about delivering a stronger and fairer state, working to close the gap and ensuring all Victorians have access to the same opportunities and a better future,” she said.

“When we listen to people directly affected by policies, we get better outcomes.”

The new body will work alongside the Victorian Government to deliver reforms and practical outcomes outlined under the Statewide Treaty, while also advancing truth-telling, self-determination and Closing the Gap commitments.

Gellung Warl consists of three key parts — the First Peoples’ Assembly, Nginma Ngainga Wara, and Nyerna Yoorrook Telkuna.

The First Peoples’ Assembly will include democratically elected representatives who will advise Parliament on matters affecting First Peoples across Victoria.

Nginma Ngainga Wara will oversee commitments linked to the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, while Nyerna Yoorrook Telkuna will focus on local truth-telling processes, education, healing and reconciliation.

The launch follows the successful election of the new First Peoples’ Assembly of Gellung Warl, including newly elected Co-Chairs Djaran Murray-Jackson and Meriki Onus.

Djaran Murray-Jackson is a proud Dja Dja Wurrung man who has served as a Reserved Seat holder for DJAARA since 2023 and currently serves as Deputy Chairperson on the DJAARA Board.

Meriki Onus, a Gunnai and Gunditjmara person, has spent more than a decade organising First Peoples communities and allies on justice issues and was previously involved in Treaty negotiations as Head of Policy at the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria.

The body includes 21 general members elected across five Victorian regions, alongside 13 reserved seats representing Traditional Owner groups.

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