Aboriginal people in Victoria have never ceded sovereignty, and have long called for treaty with government.
Australia is one of the only Commonwealth countries that does not have a treaty.
Treaties are necessary to recognise historic wrongs. It is not about blame, but about stating the facts, and attempting to right the wrongs.
Treaties are also necessary to promote fundamental human rights.
It is an opportunity to recast the relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Victorians.
What is in a treaty is up to community.
The Treaty Advancement Commissioner, Jill Gallagher is talking with Aboriginal community about their aspirations for treaty or treaties. This is occurring at community gatherings across Victoria.
Her role is not to negotiate treaty. Rather, she is maintaining momentum for the process, and setting up the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria (formerly Aboriginal Representative Body) which will set the 'ground rules' for negotiations.
For more information on the Assembly, including about the election process, click here.