Ms Pepper is a proud First Nations woman who spends much of her time educating the community through cultural work and workshops.
She said her intent on running as a candidate was to show up for the wide-ranging region, covering towns from Seymour to Benalla, and all the way to the NSW border.
“I’m running because I care deeply about our communities and I’ve seen firsthand the difference it makes when someone genuinely shows up and listens,” Ms Pepper said.
“I’m not running to sit back — I’m running to be present. To show up, to listen to our mob and to make sure their voices are carried into the First Peoples’ Assembly.
“This is about making sure our communities aren’t overlooked, and that Treaty is shaped by the people it’s meant to represent.”
Community is Ms Pepper’s key focus, and, if elected, she said it would remain at the centre of her every decision.
“If elected, my main priorities are making sure our communities are genuinely heard and that Treaty delivers real, practical outcomes,” she said.
“That means strengthening self-determination, so First Nations people have a true say in decisions that affect their lives, and advocating for better outcomes in key areas like health, education, housing and support for young people.
“I’m also committed to protecting and strengthening our culture, language and identity, and making sure these are respected in everything we build through Treaty.”
If elected, Ms Pepper will bring not just this deep passion for the people of the region, but also her strong knowledge of them.
“Through my work in community and volunteering, the biggest thing I hear is that people want to be genuinely listened to and involved in decisions that affect their lives,” she said.
“There’s a strong call for self-determination, where First Nations people have real control over their futures, not just consultation.
“People are also asking for better outcomes in everyday areas like health, education, housing and support for young people, alongside stronger recognition and protection of culture, language and identity.
“But above all, what I hear from mob is the need for real, practical change — not just words — and for leaders who will show up, stay connected and be accountable to community.”
Voting for the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria election opened on Saturday, March 21 and can be done in person, online or via post.
For more information, visit firstpeoplesvic.org/news/notice-of-election-2026
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