The Andrews Labor Government is committed to working with Aboriginal Victorians towards self-determination and helping further Aboriginal Victorians’ management of their culture and heritage.

The Victorian Budget 2017/18 includes $68 million to advance self-determination, including establishing a new dedicated community infrastructure fund.

To ensure that Aboriginal Victorians are at the heart of the decision making process, $28.5 million will be invested to support treaty negotiations, including developing a new representative body, as well as a self-determination plan to help make treaty a reality.

A total of $21.8 million will go to supporting projects that are important to Aboriginal Victorians, including:

• $15 million to create a new infrastructure fund, the first of its kind in Victoria. These funds will be used for a range of projects nominated by Aboriginal communities and organisations, including new community facilities or spaces designed to promote culture and heritage.
• $5.4 million will help progress the removal of first mortgages from Aboriginal organisation-owned properties, which will allow these properties to be more effectively used for the economic and social benefit of the community.

An additional $17.9 million will help continue to fund the Koori Youth Council, Local Aboriginal Networks, community events, and the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins

“We are absolutely committed to advancing self-determination and treaty negotiations – and that’s reflected in this Budget.”

“We’ve trialed the removal of first mortgages and this funding will enable us to take the next step.”