31 October 2025
Life Without Barriers congratulates Victoria on passing its historic Australian-first Treaty legislation in Parliament while celebrating the significance of this important moment.
Australia’s first Treaty between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and a state government is an important step towards healing and restoring self-determination of Aboriginal peoples.
Life Without Barriers applauds the First Peoples Assembly and the Victorian Government on passing this important legislation that will help ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have a real say in decisions that will directly impact First Peoples in Victoria.
The Treaty will deliver practical, self-determined solutions to improve health, education and housing outcomes for the community, as it recognises that Aboriginal people are the experts when it comes to Country, culture and communities.
Life Without Barriers acknowledges the effort, advocacy and generosity of spirit of Aboriginal people to continue to forge this path to treaty and hopes this legislation will inspire a powerful legacy that leads the way for other states and territories.
We know that the settlement of Australia profoundly disrupted the cultural, spiritual, and physical connection between the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this country and their land, water, and community.
Just as Life Without Barriers fully supported the Uluru Statement of the Heart, the organisation continues to recognise that treaty is essential to honouring sovereignty, closing the gap, and building relationships grounded in truth, respect and self-determination.
Reconciliation must live in the hearts and minds of all Australians, and we call on other states and territories in Australia to follow Victoria’s lead by recognising the harm and pain of the past while working towards a better, fairer future for everyone.
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