Allan Pushes Ahead With Aboriginal Apology

Victoria is preparing to deliver a formal apology to Aboriginal people on 9 December 2025, but the decision is already sparking significant debate across the state.

The apology follows recommendations from the Yoorrook Justice Commission and forms part of Victoria’s Treaty process — a process critics argue was never put to a statewide vote and risks dividing the state along racial lines.

Some also question whether the timing aligns with public priorities, pointing to Victoria’s ongoing crime issues, rising cost-of-living pressures and broader concerns about government focus.

Yoorrook detailed how colonisation involved dispossession, displacement and violence against First Peoples, echoing past national conversations such as Kevin Rudd’s 2008 apology, which set a precedent for formal acknowledgements of harm.

Supporters say the state must confront this history, while opponents argue that decisions of this scale require broader consultation to ensure they unite rather than divide Victorians.

Concerns around community consent were amplified last year when the Treaty in the Park concert — a dual-priced and politically exclusive event with different ticketing for different racial groups — was promoted in Wyndham without any meaningful consultation.

The move also follows the Allan Government directing $6 million into new grants that expand “Aboriginal perspectives.” 

For some residents, it symbolised how Treaty-related initiatives can be introduced without broad local input.

Premier Jacinta Allan says the apology is intended to help Victoria “address the injustices of the past to build a better future for all Victorians, grounded in mutual respect and understanding.”

Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins adds that “Yoorrook has laid bare the impacts of the past on First Peoples – it’s important that we apologise for injustices and acknowledge their enduring strength.”

According to the 2021 Census, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make up around 1.0% of Victoria’s population — far lower than the national average of 3.8% and well below Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

Some critics argue that while the voices of First Nations communities must be respected, major decisions tied to Treaty and reconciliation should involve broader public input to avoid deepening divisions.

Despite the debate, the state will proceed, with the apology to be delivered in Parliament House and available to watch in person or online via the Parliament of Victoria website.

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