The Allan government is under mounting pressure to put its newly unveiled Treaty to a referendum, with critics branding it even more radical than the failed federal Voice to Parliament.
The agreement establishes an elected Indigenous council, Gellung Warl, with direct access to ministers, senior bureaucrats, and the Victoria Police Chief Commissioner. It will be based inside parliament and oversee policies impacting Indigenous Victorians, as well as manage an infrastructure fund. Schools will introduce new curriculum on the “enduring harm” of colonisation, and parks and waterways will be renamed.
Warren Mundine slammed the deal as “a nightmare for the parliamentary system” and demanded a referendum. Senator Jacinta Price warned Victoria’s plan “goes even further than the national Voice”.
Premier Jacinta Allan defended the Treaty, insisting it “takes nothing away from anyone” and will deliver better outcomes. The initial cost is set at $300 million.
The state opposition accused the government of forcing through a “second Voice” without consultation, but the legislation is expected to pass with Greens and crossbench support.
Under the plan, Gellung Warl will have advisory powers but no veto rights, while also opening the door to further treaties with Indigenous groups, potentially including reparations.
