Australia is a land rich in cultural heritage and diversity.

Aussies may soon have a new reason to celebrate this legacy.

Citizens of one state could be marking their calendars with an additional holiday to honour Indigenous culture and commemorate a historic moment.


In recognition of the First Peoples of Australia, a new public holiday could be added in Victoria.

First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria Co-chair Ngarra Murray shared her vision behind the initiative.

'It should be a day that's all about inclusivity so that everyone could celebrate all together as a community,' Ms Murray stated.


'Because the treaty is not just about people; it's about all peoples that live here in our country.'

The proposed holiday should be a day for reflection, education, and acknowledgement of the diverse Indigenous cultures and languages integral to the state's identity.

The public holiday would also serve as a reminder of the importance of reconciliation and the steps being taken towards it.


Negotiations for Australia's first treaty with Aboriginal people officially began, with the Victorian government and the First Peoples' Assembly at the helm.

The Treaty Authority should oversee these historic discussions as they happen.

Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan expressed her optimism about the negotiations.

'We are considering the challenges and the consequences of the unbroken line of injustice that was caused by that initial colonial dispossession,' Premier Allan shared.


The First Peoples' Assembly made it clear that they expect a significant role in the decision-making process.

'It will be the mob making decisions about the mob,' the Assembly stated in its annual report.

'When decisions aren't primarily about the mob, it still impacts us. We want the Assembly to be able to ensure that Victorian Government ministers and the public service get advice directly from First Peoples.'

This commission, modelled after South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation hearings, has the authority to investigate and refer information about alleged crimes to law enforcement.


While Premier Allan has not set a specific timeline for the treaty negotiations, the outcome would need parliamentary approval.

The treaty discussions are not just about public holidays; it's also about setting a precedent for how Indigenous voices are heard and respected.

The Assembly also advocated for the power to hold the Victorian Government accountable for its promises and to scrutinise policies and services to ensure they meet the needs of Indigenous communities.

As we await further developments, let us consider what this potential public holiday could mean for Aussies and the country as a whole.

It could also be an opportunity to learn about Indigenous history and culture and to come together in a spirit of unity and respect.
What are your thoughts on this proposed public holiday? How could it enrich our understanding of Australia's Indigenous heritage? Share your views in the comments below.