First Nations leaders call for federal treaty and truth-telling to follow Victoria's lead, citing a unifying federal-level process as critical for addressing historical injustices and fostering reconciliation. The Together for Treaty National Summit in Melbourne gathered over 350 people, praising Victoria's introduction of a treaty as a powerful example. Conference organizers penned an open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, emphasizing the federal government's role in decisions affecting First Nations peoples. The letter highlights the need for a unified approach to treaty and truth-telling, as some states are deemed 'hostile' to the concept. Jackie Huggins, a board director and Elder, advocates for insights from progressive governments to advance treaty discussions. The push for a federal treaty is described as a generational fight, attracting both old and young. Larissa Baldwin-Roberts, CEO of Common Threads, emphasizes the social license for treaty, citing polling that shows widespread support. Victoria's treaty, signed and formalised as law last year, became Australia's first modern treaty agreement with Aboriginal people. Two traditional owner groups in regional Victoria have entered the Treaty Negotiations Register, allowing talks toward individual treaties to continue. Travis Lovett, a former commissioner, stresses the importance of federal truth-telling for national healing. However, the Victorian opposition leader, Jess Wilson, pledges to repeal the state's treaty if elected, citing a referendum result. South Australia's shadow treasurer, Ben Hood, also threatens to repeal the state's First Nations Voice to Parliament, linking it to treaty and truth-telling. The federal government's stance on these issues remains pending.
