Gellung Warl ready to represent First Peoples In Victoria

The new entity created by Victoria’s first Treaty – Gellung Warl – is now fully operional

The body will lead the strengthened relationship between First Peoples and the State.

They will work with the Victorian Government to action reforms and practical outcomes set out in the Statewide Treaty.

Gellung Warl comprises three main parts:

• The First Peoples’ Assembly – consisting of democratically elected members to inform Parliament on matters that affect First Peoples.
• Nginma Ngainga Wara – to implement the commitment under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.
• Nyerna Yoorrook Telkuna – to establish truth-telling in local communities about history and supporting ongoing education, healing and reconciliation.
• The establishment of Gellung Warl follows the successful election of the new First Peoples’ Assembly of Gellung Warl.

This includes the election of new Co-Chairs Djaran Murray-Jackson and Meriki Onus.

Djaran is a proud Dja Dja Wurrung man who has served as Reserved Seat holder for DJAARA since 2023 and is currently Deputy Chairperson on the DJAARA Board.

Meriki is a Gunnai and Gunditjmara person and has over a decade of experience organising First Peoples and allies for justice, including participation in Treaty negotiations as Head of Policy at First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria.

It comprises 21 general members from five regions across Victoria, and 13 seats reserved for members of Traditional Owner groups.

“Treaty is about delivering a stronger and fairer state, working to close the gap and ensuring all Victorians have access to the same opportunities and a better future,” Minister for First Peoples Ros Spence said.

“When we listen to people directly affected by policies, we get better outcomes.”