The First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria will be established as a result of the treaty vote that will take place between September and October this year.
The assembly will see a number of candidates elected from five regions across the state to make up 33 seats, which will work with the Victorian Government to shape the future for indigenous people.
Shepparton’s Natarsha Bamblett said there had never been a more exciting time for the indigenous people of Victoria, and she urged people to understand its significance and enroll to vote.
“The time is now to be counted, so I encourage people to do that for themselves and for our ancestors before us.”
But beyond simply enrolling to vote, Ms Bamblett has put her hand up to run as a candidate for the north-east region in the upcoming election.
She said her motivation to run as a candidate stemmed from her passion and desire to be a voice for the indigenous community.
“Me being a candidate is not for me. It’s not just my voice but it’s my people’s voice that I want to represent — and that’s the most powerful force behind wanting to do it,” she said.
“If I have the opportunity to make a stand for my people, then I’m going to do that in whatever way I can.”
Ms Bamblett said the treaty would shape the future for generations to come and she hoped that all indigenous people would consider enrolling to have their say.
Voting for the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria begins on September 16 and will close on October 20.
People wishing to vote can enroll online at www.firstpeoplesvic.org