Why are Land, sky and waters important?
The Yoorrook Justice Commission is looking into land, sky and waters as part of the truth telling process in Victoria.
First Peoples have been caring for country for thousands of generations. The history of Europeans coming to Victoria 200 years ago and taking First Peoples’ land is one of wrongdoing and devastating loss.
But it is also a story First Peoples’ resistance, survival and ongoing connection to country.
“Our culture is ancient and our culture is strong, yet we still suffer the wrongs of the past. With tears on the landscape and scars on our heart, our truth needs to be told.”
Aunty Jill Gallagher, CEO of VACCHO
On this page are some of the responses Yoorrook has received as part of its inquiry.
What you've told us about Land, sky and waters
Submission – Rex Solomon
Submission – Anonymous 212
This submission is an artwork made by a person with family connections to the Gunditjmara nation. It reflects treasured childhood memories. The submission also covers the ongoing challenges and injustices faced by First Peoples.
Submission – Anonymous 342
Submission – Uleena Murray
What does country mean to you?
View more Shared Truths
News, Stories and Videos
Discover the latest updates on Yoorrook's work, inspiring stories of strength and resistance from First Peoples, insightful opinion pieces from Commissioners, and engaging videos about truth-telling and history
Videos
13 June 2025
Gomeroi woman Dr Nikki Moodie shares the importance of Country
“All First Nations around the world are purposeful peoples. Teaching the next generation how to care for Country by caring for the stories and the languages that come from land is our purpose. Our purpose is to care for the land and our right to do so has been denied.”
Videos
13 June 2025
Nerita Waight shares the strength of First Peoples and ongoing connection to culture, community and Country
“Terrible things have been done to us throughout the last 230 years of colonisation”
Videos
2 June 2025
Dr Vicki Couzens, Keerray Woorroong Gunditjmara, shares the importance of Country and the impact of severing that connection on First Peoples.
“Your name, your kinship, your totems, your clans tell you who you are. They tell you how you are related to each other…”
News & Stories
19 February 2025
What is Yoorrook up to in 2025?
Yoorrook represents Victoria’s commitment to understanding our shared history so we can build a better future together. The Commission has finalised its major hearing blocks and closed submissions. So, what is Yoorrook up to now?
News & Stories
18 December 2024
A powerful year for Truth and Treaty
In 2024 the Yoorrook Justice Commission investigated the systemic injustices faced by First Peoples in land, sky and waters, education, health, and housing. From hearing evidence at the site of the first recorded massacre in Victoria to the premier’s historic visit to Coranderrk, it has been a year filled with powerful moments.
News & Stories
6 December 2024
100 Years Ago – The legacy and closure of Coranderrk Station, 1924
The story of Coranderrk Station shows the strength and resistance of First Peoples and systemic injustices faced.
Other information
Land, Sky and Waters submissions
Make a submission to help Yoorrook recommend changes to right the wrongs of the past and make a better shared future for everyone.
Land, Sky and Waters Videos
Watch videos showing connection to Country and the impact of colonisation.
Newsletters
Catch up on the latest news, stories and sign up for updates on Yoorrook's work.