Numerous beloved Australian artists will come together to commemorate Victoria becoming the first state across the country to sign a treaty with Traditional Owners of the land.

VICTORIA’S TREATY: IT’S HERE is a free, family-friendly affair that will be held at Melbourne’s John Cain Arena this Friday, 12 December, from 6:30 pm. Marking the historic commencement of Victoria’s Treaty are Alice Skye, Baker Boy, Briggs, Deborah Cheetham Fraillon, Missy Higgins, Yothu Yindi, Uncle Kutcha Edwards, and friends. 

While tickets are free, bookings are essential. VICTORIA’S TREATY: IT’S HERE will be an alcohol-free event spanning three hours. Punters can book tickets now via the Treaty Victoria website.

Last month, Australia saw its first treaty signed between the Victorian state government and its First Nations people.

“It brings together the First Peoples of these lands and waters — through the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria — and the State of Victoria on behalf of all Victorians, to forge a renewed and enduring relationship built on respect, trust, accountability and integrity,” the treaty reads.

While advocacy for the treaty has been underway for decades, the formal process began in 2016. “Treaty is an opportunity to listen, to learn, and to affirm the rightful place of First Peoples as decision-makers of their own futures, on their own country,” the treaty document continues.

“This statewide treaty marks a new beginning — an invitation to walk forward together, guided by truth, integrity and determination.”

In 2017, the Uluru Statement from the Heart called for a nationwide treaty.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese committed to the pillars outlined in the Uluru Statement, including the attempt to enshrine an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in the constitution, but the attempt failed in a 2023 referendum.

Since the referendum, the federal government hasn’t undertaken any other formal processes to pursue remaining elements of the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

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