The Elders’ Voice

The Elders’ Voice plays a crucial role in guiding the work of the Assembly on the journey to Treaty.

Our Elders are fundamental to who we are as Aboriginal people – it’s because of the wisdom and resilience of our Elders that we are here today.

When it comes to Treaty, the voices of Elders must be heard.

The Elders’ Voice is a platform for Elders in Victoria to provide cultural authority to the work of the Assembly. Lead by two Assembly Members elected as Elders’ Voice Co-Chairs, the Elders’ Voice brings Elders together across the state to share their knowledge and inform the journey to Treaty.

Meet the Elders’ Voice Co-Chairs

Aunty Esme Bamblett
Bangerang, Taungurung and Wiradjuri

Rodney Carter
Dja Dja Wurrung

The role of the Elders’ Voice is to:

  • Engage and empower Elders to participate in the Treaty process.
  • Provide cultural and ethical advice, guidance, wisdom and oversight to the Assembly, including the Youth Voice.
  • Provides cultural and ethical guidance to the Treaty Authority.
  • Consult with Elders on the future design of an Elders’ Voice under a statewide Treaty.

How to get involved

There will be a calendar of regular Elders’ forums, meetings and yarning circles around the state, commencing in the second half of 2023. 

We also offer one-on-one yarns with those Elders that may be too frail to attend our in-person gatherings – just reach out to the the Elders’ Voice coordinator.

Sitting fees are paid to Elders for their time and input.

Any Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person who considers themselves an Elder and who lives in OR has ties to Victoria can be involved in the Elders’ Voice.

The Elders’ Voice acknowledges the importance of Cultural Authority. Four cultural pillars have been built into the Elders’ Voice: Respect, Connectedness, Knowledge Base and Aboriginal Lore of the Land.

If you are an Elder, we want to hear from you!

Have a yarn on the
Elders’ Voice hotline

Hello! I’m Drew – the Elders’ Voice coordinator. I’m a proud Dja Dja Wurrung and Yorta Yorta man with more than 20 years’ experience working with Community.

Some of the things I like to talk about with Elders include:

  • What does it mean to be an Elder?
  • What are your aspirations for Treaty?
  • What role should Elders play in the Treaty process?

What do you think? Give me a call on the Elders’ Voice Hotline on 1800 TREATY (87 32 89) or send me an email to have a yarn.

Latest Elders’ voice