The panel featured First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria elected members Belinga Briggs and Levi Power, alongside Neil Murray from the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation.
The Victorian Treaty between First Peoples and the Victorian Government — the first of its kind in Australia — is expected to be negotiated by the end of the year.
Ms Briggs said Treaty was about humanity and walking side by side in ways that benefited everyone, with plenty of good work already under way.
“Change is the only constant, and being informed, joining community networks and building relationships are key,” she said.
“It was a privilege to answer questions, share insights and engaging yarns with local leaders and staff from across the region.
“I’m grateful to yarn and reflect. I hope there’s many more to come.”
First Nations advocate professor Kate Auty thanked the panel for its open and honest discussion.
“It’s always inspiring when Aboriginal people talk to non-Aboriginal people about their aspirations,” she said.
“It’s always really generous of them to ask us to walk with them.”
Goulburn Broken CMA Traditional Owner partnerships officer Carla Miles said the event aimed to unpack the statewide Treaty-making process and provide an opportunity for local engagement.
She said panel members provided generous insight into the session, which formed part of the authority’s third Reconciliation Action Plan.
“We wanted to run this event in National Reconciliation Week, as part of the annual nationwide effort to demonstrate support for First Nations peoples and their aspirations,” she said.
“We were delighted with the great turn-out and the respectful, open and heartfelt engagement from both the panel members and the guests.”
For more information, go to firstpeoplesvic.org
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