The Victorian government formally apologized to Australia’s First Peoples for the injustices inflicted upon them since colonization. In a statement made before Parliament on November 7, 2023, Premier Jacinta Allan addressed the historical actions and inactions of both the colonial and state governments, acknowledging the profound harm caused to Aboriginal communities.
Allan emphasized that decisions made in the Parliament over its history have denied the First Peoples their rights and self-determination. She described the colonization of Victoria as “rapid and violent,” noting that Aboriginal people were systematically stripped of their lands, culture, and identity. “We acknowledge the harm inflicted on generations of First Peoples—marking the beginning of a new era that embraces truth, honors justice, and creates space for a shared future,” she stated.
The apology follows the findings of the Yoorrook Justice Commission, which revealed the severity of the injustices faced by Aboriginal Australians. Allan remarked that many Victorians were unaware of the extent of the harm until the Commission’s work illuminated these truths. “Now that we have a statewide treaty—a negotiated agreement between equals—we can begin to say what should have been said long ago,” she added.
Details of the Apology
The Parliament’s formal and sincere apology addressed multiple historical grievances. It acknowledged the laws and policies that facilitated the removal of Aboriginal people from their lands and the erasure of their cultures. Allan stated, “For the laws, the policies, and the decisions of this Parliament that took land, removed children, and broke families, we say sorry.” The apology also recognized the ongoing effects of these actions, as many Aboriginal communities continue to grapple with their legacies.
The sentiments shared in Parliament resonated with many in attendance, including Jill Gallagher, the former Victorian treaty commissioner. Gallagher expressed her emotional response to the apology, stating it marked a significant step toward healing for Aboriginal peoples in Victoria. “It means our people here in Victoria can start the healing process,” she told reporters. “To see the state government put that in action in Parliament today was so amazing to witness.”
Gunditjmara elder Uncle Mark Rose also attended the session and highlighted the importance of actionable commitments behind the apology. He noted that this moment differed from previous apologies as it included a promise for future change, emphasizing that “it’s about doing something about it.”
Political Responses and Future Commitments
The apology was met with opposition from the Victorian Liberal Party, which criticized the wording for referencing the treaty process. The party plans to abolish the treaty agreement if they win the upcoming elections in 2026. Despite this opposition, the motion passed with a majority vote of 56 to 27.
Labor MP Sheena Watt, the first Indigenous woman in the Victorian Parliament, articulated her mixed feelings of pride and sorrow during her remarks. She highlighted the long struggle faced by her community, stating, “Today is about recognizing that decisions made by this Parliament mean that I can’t talk to my family in my language.”
The Yoorrook Justice Commission has been pivotal in reshaping the narrative surrounding Victoria’s colonial history. The Commission’s findings have led to a broader understanding of the injustices faced by Aboriginal Australians, marking a turning point in the relationship between the state and its First Peoples.
As Victoria moves forward with its treaty process, the Premier’s apology aims to symbolize a commitment to addressing past wrongs and building a future based on equality and respect. Allan concluded her address with a promise that Victoria will not look away from the truth, stating, “If this apology is to carry more than words, we must certify through what we do next that Treaty is not merely a gesture. It is a pathway to healing and change.”
The formal apology from the Victorian government represents a significant moment in Australia’s ongoing journey toward reconciliation with its Indigenous peoples, paving the way for a future rooted in mutual respect and understanding.
