The specifics of how the Coalition would wind back the laws are yet to be detailed, with policymakers behind the bill seeking to future-proof some key elements of treaty from changes in government.
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A new representative body for First Peoples known as Gellung Warl – a Gunaikurnai phrase for “tip of the spear” – is proposed to be shielded by funding it through an ongoing, special appropriation cemented into the state budget.
Under the legislation to be debated this week, elected members of the First Peoples’ Assembly will have power to make representations to the cabinet, individual ministers, departmental secretaries and both houses of parliament and conduct briefings with the Victoria Police chief commissioner and state-funded service providers.
Cabinet meetings attended by representatives of the assembly will be conducted at least twice a year and bound by confidentiality. The assembly will address a joint sitting of both houses of parliament once a year and at any time can report to either house and relevant ministers about matters that affect First Peoples.
Legislation will also explicitly outline that nothing in the agreement will limit the power of the Victorian parliament to make laws and otherwise conduct its business.
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Debate on the treaty bill will begin with a smoking ceremony, with a speech from Murray – provided to The Age ahead of time – which takes a swipe at the political fights that have at times dominated policy decisions for First Peoples.
“The time for paternalistic governments making decisions on behalf of our people ends with this treaty,” Murray’s speech says.
“No longer will policies be made about us, without us.
“Our people will no longer tolerate being the political football that politicians kick around looking to further their own selfish interests.”
In his speech, Berg will say good intentions have too often outlived good outcomes, with the new representative body to provide measurable milestones, report on progress openly and be answerable to community.
“We do this not to divide Victoria, but to complete it,” he will say.
“Not to take anything from anyone, but to make this place more whole for everyone.”
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