Victoria's Treaty Test: Elections & One Nation

Victorias historic treaty with its First Peoples faces a critical test in the upcoming state election. The Coalition plans to scrap the agreement, while One Nation gains traction with anti-Indigenous views. Ngarra Murray, who co-chaired the First Peoples’ Assembly and negotiated the deal, assures voters theres nothing to fear. Elections for a new Assembly began this weekend, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people voting for representatives. Murray, who served seven years on the Assembly, is stepping down to focus on family. She expressed disappointment after meeting opposition leader Jess Wilson, who worries the treaty expands powers too much. Murray points to broad support from unions and multicultural groups, ready to mobilize before the election. In Queensland, a new government already axed a similar truth-telling process. The treaty process began in 2018 with enabling laws and the Yoorrook Justice Commissions report on colonial history. Murray links One Nations rise to racism spiked by last years failed federal Voice referendum. With 81 candidates for 22 seats and polls open until April 12th, Murray sees hope in young leaders stepping up. No matter the election outcome, she believes the dialogue with First Peoples will continue and help heal the state.

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