The Yoorrook Justice Commission has officially launched its inquiry into the domains of land, sky, and waters, marking the next pivotal phase in Victoria’s truth-telling process. Yoorrook, Victoria’s formal truth-telling inquiry, is now making Pioneering Indigenous significant strides in its pursuit of justice and reconciliation.
This particular facet of Yoorrook’s evidence-gathering endeavors encompasses a series of activities, including roundtable discussions with Traditional Owner groups, organizations, and individuals.
It also involves the convening of formal hearings, on-site visits to places Pioneering Indigenous of cultural significance, the issuance of notices to produce, and the welcoming of submissions from the general public.
The Commission recently issued an Issues Paper, a crucial step that encourages both individuals and organisations to present their perspectives and insights regarding land, sky, and waters. The deadline for submissions is set for the 17th of November, 2023, providing a significant window of opportunity for voices to be heard.
Commissioner Travis Lovett, a Kerrupmara/Gunditjmara man, leads the inquiry into land, sky, and waters.
“The past few months, as Australia debated the Voice proposal, have been incredibly challenging for First Peoples. Now we must find ways to move forward together,” he said.
“The work of the Yoorrook Justice Commission is more important than ever. Yoorrook is investigating the impact colonisation has had and continues to have on First Peoples in Victoria.
“Yoorrook is listening to all Victorians and making recommendations to right the wrongs of the past and build a better future for everyone.
“Yoorrook is focusing now on land, sky and waters. 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 of First Peoples’ resistance, survival and ongoing connection to country.”
The Yoorrook Justice Commission stands as a pioneering initiative in Victoria and, indeed, throughout Australia.
Established through Letters Patent in May 2021 by the Victorian Government and the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, it embodies a formal commitment to acknowledging historical truths and fostering understanding.
In a recent milestone, Yoorrook unveiled its latest interim report titled “Yoorrook for Justice: Report into the Child Protection and Criminal Justice Systems.” This report, an important step in the truth-telling process, delves into critical issues related to child protection and the criminal justice system.
Furthermore, the Commission has plans to release additional issues papers on subjects including health, housing, and education in the coming months. This ensures a comprehensive exploration of key areas that have historically impacted the lives of First Peoples in Victoria.
The Yoorrook Justice Commission’s dedicated efforts are scheduled to continue until June 2025, providing a framework for genuine reconciliation and the pursuit of justice for all Victorians.
