Why Australia avoided treaties historically

Australia now has its first treaty with this country's first peoples. After nearly a decade of formal consultation and negotiation, the Victorian Statewide Treaty has become law, and will come into effect from early December. This address outlines the long road to achieving the treaty, why it's important, and what comes next.

The 25th Dr Charles Perkins Oration was recorded on 28 October 2025 at the University of Sydney.

Speakers

Ngarra MurrayCo-chair, Victorian First People's Assembly