The First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria has assessed this year’s State Budget as a mixed bag for the Aboriginal Community.
The Assembly welcomes new funding for initiatives that put First Peoples experts in the driver’s seat of decision making, including investment in community-owned vocational education, First Nations’ business development, and joint management of Country.
New funding for the Wamba Wemba Aboriginal Corporation to support their work on cultural heritage is a highlight, following their uptake of a reserved seat with the Assembly last year.
However, there is real concern for vital services—such as the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS)—which continue to face significant short-term funding and ongoing uncertainty. While the Budget allocates $1.6 billion for bail reform, much of this will go towards building new prisons rather than investing in programs that help keep our young people out of the justice system.
The $12.5 million commitment to the Dandenong and District Aborigines Co-Operative (DDACL) is a welcome relief, but sustained investment in First Peoples’ organisations remains severely lacking. Infrastructure Victoria has recommended an additional $100–150 million is needed to meet immediate needs.
First Peoples’ Assembly Co-Chair, Gunditjmara man, Rueben Berg said:
“This budget shows the Government is starting to get the importance of putting self-determination at the heart of all we do here in Victoria, but our community is still being left behind where it matters most—long-term, secure investment.”
