Full Breakdown
Victorian Government Issues Historic Apology to Indigenous Peoples
12/9/2025, 5:55:13 AM
Formal Apology Delivered in Parliament
On December 9, 2025, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan delivered a formal apology in the Victorian Parliament to the First Peoples of Victoria for historical injustices inflicted by colonial and state policies. This apology was part of a broader treaty agreement, which was signed into law the previous month, marking a significant step in addressing the wrongs of the past. During the special parliamentary session, Allan stated, "Today, this parliament becomes a place of reckoning," acknowledging the "profound and undeniable harms" caused by past actions and inactions of the state.
Background and Context of the Apology
The apology fulfills a recommendation from the Yoorrook Justice Commission, which conducted a truth-telling inquiry into the impacts of colonialism on Aboriginal communities. Allan emphasized that the history of colonization in Victoria was marked by violence and dispossession, stating, "Lands and waters were taken without consent. Communities were displaced, languages silenced, children removed, lives lost." The treaty agreement, which has been in development for nearly a decade, aims to foster a renewed relationship between the state and Indigenous communities.
Political Divisions Surrounding the Apology
The apology received mixed support in Parliament, passing with a vote of 56 to 27, primarily along party lines. The Labor Party and the Greens supported the motion, while the Coalition opposed it. Opposition Leader Jess Wilson expressed her party's refusal to support the apology in its current form, citing a need for a collaborative approach to ensure bipartisan backing. Wilson stated, "The differences in approach between the Coalition and the Government in relation to Treaty represent a policy disagreement on the most effective way to close the gap."
Criticism and Opposition Perspectives
Critics of the apology, particularly from the Coalition, argue that the wording could have been more inclusive to garner broader support. Melina Bath, the Coalition's Indigenous Affairs spokeswoman, indicated that the party sought to collaborate on the apology's wording but ultimately could not endorse it as drafted. Allan responded to the opposition's stance, labeling it "shameful" and highlighting the missed opportunity for unity in addressing historical injustices.
Broader Implications and Future Actions
The apology is seen as a pivotal moment in Victoria's journey toward reconciliation with its Indigenous peoples. It is part of a larger commitment to truth-telling and legislative measures aimed at ensuring treaty compatibility in future laws. The First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria has welcomed the apology as a recognition of the "profound harms inflicted" on Aboriginal communities. A public celebration is scheduled to mark the official commencement of the treaty, featuring performances from notable artists.
Verbatim Quotes
- “To ensure that the wrongs of the past are never repeated, we say sorry,” — Jacinta Allan, Premier of Victoria
- “Today, this parliament becomes a place of reckoning, and that reckoning has meaning for all of us who call Victoria home.” — Jacinta Allan, Premier of Victoria
- “Your proposed motion includes references to the Treaty and therefore means, as currently drafted, the Coalition could not support it.” — Jess Wilson, Opposition Leader
This apology marks a significant step in Victoria's ongoing efforts to address historical injustices and build a more equitable future for Indigenous peoples.
