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In the 1860s, as the new colony of Victoria boomed following the discovery of gold, First Peoples were being moved onto missions and reserves, where their lives were tightly controlled.

One year ago, Australia made a choice for First Peoples. The referendum campaign was bitter and divisive. It was confronting for First Peoples, who had our cultures, our history and even our Aboriginality suddenly being scrutinised under the public spotlight.

During Yoorrook’s Descendants Day hearing, the Commission heard powerful evidence from three non-Indigenous witnesses, including descendants of early colonial figures. They talked about the theft of Aboriginal land, massacres, and the Aborigines Protection Act of 1886, more commonly known as the ‘Half Caste’ Act.

The Declaration, endorsed by the United Nations 17 years ago on 13 September 2007, and by Australia 2 years later, is the world’s most comprehensive international instrument on the rights of Indigenous peoples.  

Community connected with Barrbunin Beek Aboriginal Gathering Place in Heidelberg met with Yoorrook’s truth-receivers in a fireside yarning session this month.

Victoria’s truth telling commission has finished its social justice hearings, which looked into the systemic injustices faced by First Peoples in education, health, housing and the economy. Read on to find out more about key evidence and moments from the hearings.

NAIDOC Week is a celebration of First Peoples’ achievements, history and culture. We encourage all Victorians to take part in the activities and events, and to learn more about the First Peoples of these lands.

Sitting overlooking the waters where the Yarra River and Merri Creek meet, surrounded by soaring gum trees, Jarvis takes a deep breath. With the camera rolling, he begins to tell his story.