First Peoples have lived in Victoria for many tens of thousands of years, with evidence around Moyjil in Warrnambool showing probability that First Peoples have been here for 120,000 years. This would be 119,750 years more than European people. There is incredible diversity among the First Peoples of Victoria. Different Traditional Owners have different creation stories, totems, art styles and cultures. The Victorian Aboriginal Corporation for Languages works with 44 different language groups across the state. It is also important to note that within certain groups, there are also different clans.
It is crucial that when working for and with First Peoples you recognise they are not a homogenous group. Even in a relatively small state like Victoria there is a wealth of cultures, knowledges and wisdom. It is also important to acknowledge that, despite the severe impacts of colonisation on First Peoples in Victoria, links to Country have never been broken. Traditional cultural, spiritual and economic links to Country are enduring.
The strength of the First Peoples community is reflected in the range of First Peoples organisations and networks across the state. First Peoples organisations are vital to the health, wellbeing and liveliness of First Peoples communities. They are often focal points for the local First Peoples community and the broader service sector, and are well placed to work with councils. It is important that councils engage with the breadth of First Peoples organisations with an interest in their municipality as they each reflect specific interests and expertise.
Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation
Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Limited
Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency
Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service
Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Inc
Engagement, Policies and Protocols | Maggolee
Working with Traditional Owners | Maggolee
First Peoples Community Engagement and Partnerships | Maggolee
Voice to Council | Maggolee
First People of Victoria Boundaries and Networks Resource | Reconciliation Victoria
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Victoria, and recognise First Peoples continuing connection to lands, waters and community. We pay our respects to Elders past and present who carry the memories, traditions, cultures and aspirations of First Peoples, and who forge the path ahead for emerging leaders.
We dedicate ourselves to working respectfully with and guided by First Peoples, and to listen and amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in all areas of work
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Please note this site may contain images, voices and mentions of people who have passed.
Reconciliation Victoria acknowledges the valuable support we receive from our funding partners.
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