When Elders Speak, We Listen: A report to Community on the Elders’ Voice

Nov 3, 2023

A report to Community on the Elders’ Voice 

Following extensive consultation by respected Elders, Aunty Charmaine Clarke and Uncle Andrew Gardiner, the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria has formally established the Elders’ Voice. 

The Assembly acknowledges the role, status and cultural authority of the Elders’ Voice as an essential part of the Assembly’s governance.

Shaped by the wisdom of Elders   

For almost two years, the Interim Elders’ Voice Co-Chairs, Aunty Charmaine and Uncle Andrew, spoke with over 390 Elders across the state, in yarning circles, meetings, kitchen-table conversations, individual phone calls and long yarns. 

It was one of the most extensive consultations with Elders in Victoria’s recent history. Elders told us how they define Eldership, how the Elders’ Voice could be structured and where and how it should meet.

This rich community feedback is summarised in this 28-page report.