Victorian Premier Issues Historic Apology to First Peoples

The Victorian government, led by Premier Jacinta Allan, has issued a formal apology to Australia’s First Peoples for the injustices suffered during colonisation. In a significant statement delivered before the parliament on March 5, 2024, Allan acknowledged the “rapid and violent” nature of colonisation in Victoria, highlighting the profound impact of state actions and policies on Aboriginal communities.

In her address, Allan stated that decisions made within the parliament have historically denied Aboriginal peoples their rights and self-determination. She emphasized the need to confront the past openly: “We acknowledge the harm inflicted on generations of First Peoples – and mark the beginning of a new era, one that embraces truth, honours justice, and creates space for a shared future built in full view of the past.”

The apology was part of the ongoing treaty negotiation process, which aims to establish a framework for equality and cooperation between the state and Aboriginal communities. Allan noted that many Victorians remained unaware of the historical injustices until the truth was revealed by the Yoorrook Justice Commission, which has played a crucial role in uncovering the extent of the harm inflicted on Aboriginal populations.

Details of the Apology and its Significance

The Premier’s apology addressed various historical wrongs, including the loss of land, culture, and language. “Colonisation was not peaceful. It was rapid and violent,” she stated, pointing to the removal of children and the silencing of Indigenous languages as deliberate acts of oppression. The apology explicitly recognized the ongoing effects of these actions, stating, “We can no longer look away.”

In her remarks, Allan expressed hope that the apology would serve as more than just words, promoting healing and reconciliation. “To ensure that the wrongs of the past are never repeated, we say sorry,” she declared, extending her sentiments to all First Peoples in attendance and across the state.

The emotional weight of the apology was palpable in the chamber, with many Indigenous leaders present. Jill Gallagher, the former Victorian treaty commissioner, described the moment as a historic step towards healing. She remarked, “It means our people here in Victoria can start the healing process, to acknowledge all those bad things that happened to our communities.”

Mixed Reactions and Political Context

The apology garnered mixed reactions. While it was celebrated by many Indigenous leaders, it faced opposition from the Victorian Liberal Party, which argued against the treaty process referenced in the apology. Opposition leader Jess Wilson acknowledged the need to apologize for past injustices but emphasized differing views on the treaty’s implications.

The apology motion was passed with a vote of 56 to 27 in the lower house, despite the opposition’s objections. Critics, including Gallagher, expressed concern that Aboriginal issues continue to be politicized, with some leaders treating them as “a political football.”

During the parliamentary session, more than 300 First Nations people participated in a ceremonial smoking event, led by Wurundjeri elder Uncle Andrew Gardiner. Their presence highlighted the significance of the apology as a communal acknowledgment of past harms and a commitment to future collaboration.

Sheena Watt, the first Indigenous woman in the Victorian parliament, reflected on the importance of this moment for her community. She noted the ongoing struggle faced by Aboriginal people, stating that decisions made in the past have lasting consequences, particularly regarding language and culture.

As Victoria moves forward with its treaty process, the apology marks a pivotal moment in the relationship between the state and its First Peoples, establishing a foundation for future dialogue and understanding. The Premier’s commitment to transforming words into action underlines the urgency of addressing historical injustices and fostering a more inclusive society.