First Nations Legal and Research Services (FNLRS) congratulates the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation (DJAARA) on commencing Traditional Owner Treaty discussions with the Victorian Government on behalf of the Dja Dja Wurrung people.
By registering their intent to negotiate a Traditional Owner Treaty with the state Government, DJAARA has taken a historic step and become the first Victorian First Nations group to commence Traditional Owner Treaty discussions.
In 2013 FNLRS supported the Dja Dja Wurrung people on their journey to Traditional Owner recognition under Victoria’s alternative native title settlement processes. This successful settlement recognised the Dja Dja Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of Djandak in Central Victoria and granted the First Nations group binding, formal rights and interests to their country. These rights recognise the Dja Dja Wurrung people’s enduring connection and establish a legal base for its Traditional Owner Treaty Discussions with the Government.
Both native title and Statewide and Traditional Owner Treaties have a role to play in recognising First Nations rights. As shown by DJAARA, native title settlements can play a critical role in progressing Traditional Owner Treaty discussions for Victorian First Nations groups.