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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. 

Yoorrook Truth Receiver Stephen Thorpe, who belongs to the Gunnai, Gunditjmara, Yorta Yorta and Palawa nations, shares some insights about his journey to Yoorrook and why he’s passionate about truth telling.

The history of Europeans coming to Victoria 200 years ago and taking First Peoples’ land is a history of wrongdoing and loss. But it is also a story First Peoples’ resistance, survival and strength.