Gellung Warl is disappointed the Victorian Government have pushed through their Corrections Amendment Bill legislation without careful consideration of the concerns raised by First Nations experts and human rights advocates. By their own admission, this Bill is in part incompatible with Statewide Treaty.
Two weeks ago, the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria (Assembly) made a submission to the Government stating that the bill will disproportionately affect First Nations people and it was inconsistent with the spirit and intent of Statewide Treaty.
The Assembly made the submission to the Government using new powers acquired under the Statewide Treaty Act, which came into effect after signing a Treaty with the Government last year.
Under the Act, the Minister for Corrections has 60 days to respond to the submission, and as of today, the Assembly was yet to receive a response.
The Bill overrides the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 (Vic) and excludes its application from the limitation on accessing open air. The Bill also stands against the findings and recommendations of the Yoorrook Justice Commission, specifically implementing the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners.
If the Government truly believes in the purpose of Treaty, that First Peoples must be consulted and heard on issues that affect our communities, they wouldn’t have rushed this legislation in the second last sitting week before the State election.
A Treaty entered into in good faith means more than symbolism or writing in the sand. It’s about meaningful change. Treaty is about resetting the relationship between First Nations people and the State, a new relationship built on mutual trust and respect. On this metric, the Government has failed.
To all First Peoples inside; we see you, we hear you, and we will never stop fighting for you.
Media contact: Clare Brosnan 0487 555 501 | [email protected]
