Victoria, Australia Signs First Historic Treaty with Indigenous Peoples

In a move described as a historic shift towards reconciliation, the state of Victoria, Australia, signed its first official treaty in the history of Australia with Indigenous peoples on Thursday, November 13, 2025, setting a national precedent after decades of debate and calls for recognition and justice.

The treaty, which is set to come into effect on December 12, includes a formal apology from the state government to Indigenous peoples for the historical grievances they have suffered, and it establishes a permanent representative body known as the "First Peoples Assembly," which will advise the state government on laws and policies affecting Indigenous lives, without having veto power.

Jacinta Allan, the Premier of Victoria, stated during the signing ceremony in Melbourne:

"Today marks a new chapter in the history of our state. This treaty is not just an official document, but a promise for a more just and respectful future for all Victorians."

This agreement is seen as an unprecedented step in Australia, which has lagged behind other colonial countries like the United States, Canada, and New Zealand, which have signed similar treaties with their Indigenous peoples for decades.

The Indigenous population in Australia is estimated to be around one million, suffering from severe disparities in social and economic indicators compared to the rest of the population, including education, health, income, and life expectancy.

This treaty comes after 60% of Australian voters and all six states rejected a proposal in the 2023 national referendum to include an advisory body for Indigenous peoples in the constitution, which was considered a significant setback for national reconciliation efforts.

The discussion around the Victoria treaty dates back to 2016, when intensive consultations began between the state government and representatives of Indigenous peoples, before the state parliament passed the related bill last October, paving the way for this historic achievement.

With the signing of this treaty, Victoria becomes the first Australian state to officially recognize Indigenous peoples as partners in shaping its future, in a move many hope will pave the way for more similar agreements in other states in the coming years.

"Today is not the end of the road, but the beginning";

With this phrase, Jacinta Allan concluded her speech, emphasizing that true reconciliation is not achieved merely by signing, but by a lasting commitment to justice and mutual respect.