Environmental Justice

Truth and Treaty

Environment Victoria is proud to stand alongside First Peoples on the journey to Treaty in Victoria. It’s time to accept the truth about how Aboriginal people have been treated, heal injustices, and commit to a fairer society.

2025 is a huge year for First Nations justice in Victoria, with big steps forward on both Treaty and truth-telling.

The Yoorrook Justice Commission will deliver its long-awaited final report, while the First Peoples’ Assembly leads historic Treaty negotiations covering the lands known as Victoria.

The past can’t be changed, but by facing the truth and choosing a better way forward, we can shape a future grounded in justice.

This journey must be led by First Peoples, but it’s a journey we should all support. It’s going to take allies right across the state standing in solidarity when it counts.

Healing Country

For all of us with a deep connection to nature, understanding the true history of this land is key to protecting it.

Environmental destruction has often gone hand in hand with efforts to sever First Peoples’ connection to Country – from the rivers drained by big irrigators to sacred sites destroyed by fossil fuel companies.

But First Peoples have never stopped fighting for Country. They’ve led the fight against destruction and pollution of their land, water and sky from the very beginning. We’re proud to stand alongside First Nations Peoples on the journey to Treaty, just as they’ve stood strong for nature time and again.

We know when First Peoples have a say over what happens on their Country, everyone benefits. Traditional custodians lived sustainably on this continent for millennia, caring for its land, waters, plants and animals.

Today, there are many positive examples where First Peoples are back in charge of land and sea management.

1
Budj Bim, Gunditjmara Country

The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape is a powerful example of Aboriginal peoples’ deep expertise in water management – arguably the most enduring and successful in human history. Located in south-west Victoria, this sophisticated system of channels, dams and weirs was engineered to manage floodwaters and sustainably harvest eels and fish. With over 6,000 years of continuous use, Budj Bim predates Stonehenge and the pyramids, and was recognised in 2019 as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its Aboriginal cultural significance.

In 2022, the Victorian Government returned 2.5 gigalitres of water to the Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owner Aboriginal Corporation, supporting the ongoing flow of water over Country.

2
Barmah National Park, Yorta Yorta Country

The Barmah–Millewa Forest is Australia's largest river red gum forest and the most significant freshwater floodplain ecosystem along the Murray. Spanning parts of Victoria and New South Wales, it holds deep cultural importance for the Yorta Yorta Nation and Bangerang peoples, who have cared for this land for over 60,000 years. Today, their fight continues – working to protect sacred sites and to restore ecosystems damaged through colonisation.

In 2004, the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation became a joint manager of Barmah National Park. Recognised under the Ramsar Convention for its ecological value, this river red gum forest relies on seasonal flooding to support rich biodiversity, including critical breeding habitat for over 50 waterbird species. The Barmah–Millewa Forest stands as a powerful example of how Indigenous land management and conservation go hand in hand.

Learn More

3
First Nations Clean Energy Network

First Nations Peoples are caring for Country in new and powerful ways. The First Nations Clean Energy Network supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to lead, shape and benefit from the clean energy transition.

A great example is the Ramahyuck District Aboriginal Corporation’s solar farm, the first in the state built on Aboriginal-owned land in Gippsland, Victoria. It creates clean energy, local jobs and income that goes back into the community. Clean energy isn’t just about reducing pollution – it’s also a way for communities to build strong futures, protect culture and support self-determination.

Learn More

As the first scientists and environmentalists, Aboriginal communities have cared for Country for millennia and play a vital role in tackling today’s environmental challenges. Supporting Treaty means acknowledging past injustices and valuing the wisdom and expertise of the world’s oldest living culture. 

We commit to truth-telling about injustices in the past and the present. We back calls for Treaty, justice, and land and water rights. We promise strong, unwavering support for Treaty, and to honour the principles of Treaty once agreed. 

READ ENVIRONMENT VICTORIA’S TREATY PLEDGE 

Support Truth and Treaty

1. Learn and share truths 

The Yoorrook Justice Commission is an opportunity for us all to learn more about the history of our state, the land we live on, and the impacts of colonisation. Find out more here: 

2. support Treaty

The journey to Treaty needs to be led by First Peoples, but it’s a journey we can walk together. Sign up to the Team Treaty mailing list to hear stories, learn more, and act for truth, Treaty and justice. Join the mailing list >>

To ensure the Assembly can maintain its staunch and independent advocacy, they’ve established a Treaty fighting fund that allies can contribute to. Donate here >>

3. For mob

If you’re mob, the single most important thing you can do to help make Treaty a reality is enrol with the Assembly >>

You can also join one of the many Treaty events happening near you. Find an event >>

4. For NGOs and community groups

In addition to building its own collective strength, the Assembly provides allies with ways to strengthen its position.

Become a Friend of Treaty >>

Learn more
Treaty Yeah!

With Treaty negotiations officially kicking off in Victoria, our CEO Jono reflects on what this historic moment means

22nd Nov, 2024
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