Supporting Traditional Owners To Reach Agreement

The Andrews Labor Government is helping Victorian Traditional Owners build the state’s heritage protection scheme.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins today urged Traditional Owners to submit an Expression of Interest for the Right People for Country program.

The program works with Traditional Owners to strengthen capacity, build relationships and incorporate cultural values in the making of agreements about country and identity.

The program can also allow Traditional Owners to access independent facilitators, negotiation and facilitation training, and support to visit and map country.

The Labor Government has allocated $2 million over four years for the program as part of the Victorian Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Strategy.

Traditional Owners can find out more by attending an information workshop to hear from other Traditional Owners about their experiences with agreement making.

The closing date for Expressions of Interest is 17 November 2017.

For more information on the Right People for Country program visit http://go.vic.gov.au/XVKrZa

Quotes attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins

“This program will support Traditional Owners to reach agreements, determine the rightful owners of the land and settle agreements outside of the court system.”

“The Right People for Country Program has had great success to date and we now have 11 Registered Aboriginal Parties across Victoria.”

“We’re committed to self-determination and ensuring Aboriginal people have a strong voice in managing their cultural heritage.”