The Elders’ Voice
The Elders’ Voice plays a crucial role in guiding the work of the Assembly on the journey to Treaty.
Our Elders are fundamental to who we are as Aboriginal people – it’s because of the wisdom and resilience of our Elders that we are here today.
When it comes to Treaty, the voices of Elders must be heard.
The Elders’ Voice is a platform for Elders in Victoria to provide cultural authority to the work of the Assembly. Lead by two Assembly Members elected as Elders’ Voice Co-Chairs, the Elders’ Voice brings Elders together across the state to share their knowledge and inform the journey to Treaty.
Meet the Aboriginal Elders from across Victoria who have been selected to be part of an Elder’s Voice group.
Meet the Elders’ Voice Co-Chairs
Aunty Esme Bamblett
Bangerang, Taungurung and Wiradjuri
Rodney Carter
Dja Dja Wurrung
The role of the Elders’ Voice is to:
- Engage and empower Elders to participate in the Treaty process.
- Provide cultural and ethical advice, guidance, wisdom and oversight to the Assembly, including the Youth Voice.
- Provides cultural and ethical guidance to the Treaty Authority.
- Consult with Elders on the future design of an Elders’ Voice under a statewide Treaty.
The wisdom of experience
The Elders’ Voice was established in 2024 to provide cultural wisdom and guidance to the Assembly throughout our work towards Treaty. The Elders’ Voice has hit the ground running, meeting for the first time in April 2024 and providing advice and guidance on Treaty elements as we headed into negotiations and beyond. Between their collective wisdom, and the knowledge they hold, they are best positioned to support and assist Members in their progress towards Treaty.
The Elders’ Voice acknowledges the importance of Cultural Authority. Four cultural pillars have been built into the Elders’ Voice: Respect, Connectedness, Knowledge Base and Aboriginal Lore of the Land.
Have a yarn on the
Elders’ Voice hotline
Hello! I’m Drew – the Elders’ Voice coordinator. I’m a proud Dja Dja Wurrung and Yorta Yorta man with more than 20 years’ experience working with Community.
Some of the things I like to talk about with Elders include:
- What does it mean to be an Elder?
- What are your aspirations for Treaty?
- What role should Elders play in the Treaty process?
What do you think? Give me a call on the Elders’ Voice Hotline on 1800 TREATY (87 32 89) or send me an email to have a yarn.
Latest Elders’ voice
