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Treaty process gets state budget boost

May 24, 2023

**Budget boost:** First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria Co-chair Marcus Stewart addresses the ceremony for the signing of the Treaty Negotiation Framework. Mr Stewart said funding in the state budget for the Treaty process recognises it will be a long process.

The Victorian Government’s $138 million commitment in the state budget to the Treaty process has been welcomed by the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria.

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The commitment is over four years and includes $82 million for the Assembly.

Assembly Co-Chair and Nira illim bulluk man of the Taungurung Nation, Marcus Stewart, said the decision showed the Victorian Government understood the Treaty process required a long-term commitment to ensure better outcomes for First Peoples.

“Having laid the foundations for Treaty-making, Treaty is now within our reach, but it must be done properly to make sure it delivers on its promise of improving our people’s lives,” Mr Stewart said.

“For Treaty to begin to undo the damage of over 230 years of colonisation, the process must be set up for success, and all mob must have the chance to be part of Treaty-making.”

The Assembly is currently holding its elections for its second term, after which it expects to begin statewide Treaty negotiations with the Victorian Government.

In its first term, the Assembly secured agreement on the three key pieces of Treaty architecture, including creation of an independent umpire known as the Treaty Authority, the Self-Determination Fund to help Traditional Owner groups enter negotiations with the Victorian Government on a level playing field and the rules by which treaties will be negotiated, the Treaty Negotiation Framework.