Yoorrook calls for submissions as one year deadline passes

Victorians have one year remaining to make submissions to the state’s landmark truth telling commission.

All Victorians are invited to make a submission to the Yoorrook Justice Commission about past or ongoing systemic injustice faced by First Peoples in the state. Submissions can also be made about the strength, diversity and resilience of First Peoples’ cultures, knowledge and traditional practices.

Submissions can be made via the Yoorrook website until 22 November 2024.

Chair of Yoorrook, Professor Eleanor Bourke said:

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for all Victorians to reckon with our past and suggest changes so we can build a better future for everyone. Whether your family has been here for a thousand generations or a few years, every submission will help tell the story of Victoria.

“Yoorrook’s final report, due to be released in early 2025 will provide Victoria with a roadmap to end the systemic injustice faced by First Peoples.

“Yoorrook’s recommendations to the Victorian Government and the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria will be informed by the evidence gathered.  Now is the time to have your say.

“These submissions will contribute to an official public record of First Peoples’ experiences since colonisation. Please don’t miss out on this chance to have your say.

“Truth telling is about listening, learning and understanding past and ongoing injustices so all Victorians can work towards a better shared future for everyone in this place we all love.”

Yoorrook has spoken with over 3,000 community members since it commenced, including receiving evidence from around 800 First Peoples through submissions, roundtables and hearings.

Submissions about systemic injustice faced by First Peoples can be made by individuals or organisations. Submissions can be written, audio or video recorded, pieces of artwork, a song or dance. They can include documents, artefacts, photographs or other information.

Support is available for First Peoples considering making a submission including free, independent legal advice, wellbeing support and assistance from Yoorrook’s team of Truth Receivers.

To find out more about how to make a submission including the support available, go to www.yoorrookjusticecommission.org.au.