Reconciliation is about recognising the truth of our shared history, respecting the world's oldest continuing cultures, and building stronger relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and all Australians.
As Chair of Boroondara's Reconciliation Advisory Committee for the past two years, I have been privileged to work alongside passionate community members and representatives from the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation. Through this role, I have gained a deeper understanding of the importance of listening, learning and creating opportunities for genuine partnership.
I support Victoria's Treaty process because it provides a framework for First Peoples to negotiate directly with the government about matters that affect their communities, cultures and futures. Treaty is not about revisiting the past; it is about creating a stronger future built on recognition, self-determination and mutual respect. I will defend the Statewide Treaty from repeal and make sure Gellung Warl and our Treaty institutions are properly resourced.
Victoria should be proud to be the first state in Australia to advance a Treaty process. It demonstrates leadership, courage and a commitment to addressing long-standing inequities while building a more inclusive and united community. Treaty offers an opportunity to establish clearer relationships, improve outcomes, and ensure that Aboriginal voices are heard in decisions that affect them.
I support the approach taken by all levels of government to Close the Gap. This means giving First Peoples a genuine say in the design and delivery of the health, housing and economic programs that affect their own communities, with governments working alongside communities, rather than deciding for them.
I will challenge racism wherever I see it. I support stronger discrimination and racial vilification laws, and independent reporting on systemic racism in our schools, our police force, our health system and other public services.
At a local level here in Hawthorn, reconciliation is something we can all contribute to. It means acknowledging Country, supporting First Nations culture and businesses, learning about our history, and creating spaces where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people feel welcomed, respected and valued.
I am committed to continuing this work and ensuring that reconciliation remains an important part of building a fair, respectful and inclusive Victoria for future generations.