My name is Troy Austin, and I am a proud Gunditjmara man born and raised in the northern suburbs of Naarm (Melbourne). I serve as an Elected Member of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria (FPAV)

Recent work priorities:

On 12 November 2025, I had the honour of signing Australia’s first-ever Statewide Treaty for Victoria. The following day, I witnessed FPAV Co-Chairpersons, Rueben Berg and Ngarra Murray, add their signatures to the Treaty at Government House alongside the Victorian Premier, The Hon. Jacinta Allan, and the Minister for Treaty and First Peoples, The Hon. Natalie Hutchins. The Governor, Margaret Gardner, then granted Royal Assent by signing the Statewide Treaty Bill into law.

Engagement activities:

Yurpa and Cultural Elements

Aunty Donna Wright and I continue to co-convene the FPAV Yurpa Committee, and we’ve had the privilege of expanding some meetings to include the Elders Standing Committee. Together, we’ve discussed important matters such as drafting the Gellung Warl Sovereign Constitution.

We also lead the Cultural Elements Working Group, where FPAV members explore projects like:

• Regional cultural workshops to design and stitch possum skin cloaks.
• A language revitalisation project.
• A youth initiative teaching the cultural process of preparing possum skins.

Treaty Artwork

Community members may have seen the stunning Treaty artwork representing the five FPAV regions of Victoria. Congratulations to the five artists—Njarala Paton, Stacey Edwards, Jade Kennedy, John Patten, and Kiewa Austin-Rioli, whose work brings the Treaty to life and deserves to be celebrated.

I continue to serve on the ARRC, overseeing data sovereignty, risk management, sponsorships, FPAV member attendance, Elders’ Voice remuneration, and the FPAV budget.

Insights:

We’ve worked hard to incorporate cultural elements into Treaty activities, from introducing the Treaty Bill in Parliament to FPAV members signing the Treaty at Birrarung Wilam. Our goal is to make the December ceremony a true celebration of our communities and our fight for Treaty in Victoria

Implementation:

I remain actively engaged in the Treaty Committee, which is finalising the Treaty Declaration to be presented to the community on 12 December 2025. Multiple drafts have been carefully crafted to ensure the Declaration speaks to communities across Victoria and honours the Ancestors who paved the way for this historic achievement.

Youth Voice

The Youth Voice Engagement Plan has been presented to the Yurpa Committee for consideration. This plan outlines a statewide consultation process to capture the views of young people across Victoria. It includes surveys, data analysis, forums, and feedback loops to ensure youth help shape the future Youth Voice under Gellung Warl, the new Aboriginal representative body created through Treaty.

Treaty Progress

Victoria’s Treaty is here! The successful passage of the Treaty Bill through both Houses of Parliament marks Australia’s first Treaty. Being present during the debates was an emotional rollercoaster, and I felt immense pride when the Legislative Council passed the Bill without amendment—a phenomenal effort by the Labor Party under intense scrutiny.

With Royal Assent granted and the Bill signed into law by the Governor, only one step remains: a ceremony and celebration to officially mark the commencement of Treaty in Victoria.

Next year will see the establishment of Gellung Warl and the election of a new Aboriginal Representative Body, which will continue to be called the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria

I’ve met with the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) to discuss support for the community in the City of Yarra. Thanks to Co-Health, City of Yarra, and others for supporting our Parkies and street community. Addressing safety, essential services, and cultural connection remains a priority.

Looking ahead:

The path to Treaty has been long and, at times, challenging for our Elders, who have faced setbacks along the way, including the dismantling of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission and the disappointing rejection of the Indigenous Voice to Parliament at the Referendum in October 2023. Nevertheless, the Treaty for Victoria is here. We did it!

I warmly invite community members to join FPAV members, Elders, and Traditional Owners of Victoria as we present the FPAV Treaty Declaration to you, our community, and celebrate the commencement of Victorian Treaty with Aboriginal people on 12 December 2025. Please visit the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria website for further details as they are finalised.

Conclusion:

We’ve documented the collective support FPAV has received on this journey. Reviewing the engagements, correspondence, and conversations captured in the report fills me with pride, knowing we’ve provided communities across Victoria with opportunities to contribute and have their voices heard.

Congratulations to the Fitzroy Stars Football Club on finally winning that elusive Premiership! I’m proud to have led the movement to revive FSFC in 2008 after 14 years of rejection from football competitions. Today, the Fitzroy Stars Football and Netball Club is stronger than ever, and I’m thrilled to see the connection between the Treaty campaign and the team we hold so dear. Go STARS!

Congratulations to all recipients of the 2025 Statewide Justice Awards. I especially honour Aunty Linda Bamblett, with whom I’ve worked for 20 years. Linda was recognised for her 25 years of service alongside Aunty Marion Hansen—stalwarts of the Victorian Aboriginal Justice Agreement.

Ngata,

My name is I’m Troy Austin; I am a proud Gunditjmara man born and raised in the northern suburbs of Naarm (Melbourne). Over the past 40 years, I’ve had the privilege of working in or serving on the boards of several Aboriginal organisations including the Fitzroy Stars Football and Netball Club, Melbourne Aboriginal Youth, Sport, and Recreation, VAHS, and the Aborigines Advancement League. I have also held roles such as the Victorian Commissioner on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission and served on the Premier’s Aboriginal Advisory Committee with Steve Bracks.

Right now, I’m on leave from my role as Executive Officer of the Northern Metropolitan Regional Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee at the Department of Justice and Community Safety.

In June 2023, I was elected as a Metropolitan Member of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria (FPAV), representing my communities across Melbourne and Victoria. Since then, I have taken on a number of responsibilities within the Assembly. I co-convene the Yurpa Committee and the Cultural Elements Working Group with Aunty Donna Wright, and I am part of the Treaty Committee and the Audit, Risk & Remuneration Committee. I have been supporting the Youth Voice co-convenors, Alice Pepper and Jordan Edwards, and I am looking forward to seeing their work plan come to life.

I am deeply committed to improving justice outcomes for our people and pushing for the implementation of the Yoorrook Justice Commission’s recommendations—especially around criminal justice, child protection, health, housing, employment, and education.

Treaty Progress

The pending introduction of the Treaty Bill in to Parliament in Victoria is a huge moment. It gives me real hope that Victoria will be the first state to enter into a formal agreement with First Peoples. We are expecting that Treaty will shift decision-making power to Gullen Warl, our new Aboriginal Representative Body. I have been attending regular briefings from our FPAV negotiators, and I am excited about what is ahead—ongoing truth-telling, addressing Parliament, and holding the government accountable. We are also working towards establishing a First Nations Institute to grow leadership in our communities.

FPAV Council & Chamber

Our FPAV Council has been working hard to stay on top of governance responsibilities. Each of Council members Convene at least one committee and report back to the full Chamber of FPAV members. We have also been meeting out of session to guide our negotiators as they finalise negotiation on the Treaty Bill for Parliament.

Gullen Warl & Transition Planning

We’re currently shaping the structure and operations of Gullen Warl. It will be a body that not only represents our people but also ensures accountability and outcomes reporting back to community.

Cultural Work

Aunty Donna Wright and I co-chair the Cultural Elements Working Group and Yurpa Committee. We focus on cultural matters and make sure FPAV’s work respects our traditions and protocols. A couple of major projects we are working on include:

• Language Program – in partnership with the Victorian Aboriginal Corporation of Languages, we aim to bring traditional language into more spaces.
• Possum Skin Cloak Project – community workshops will be held across Victoria to create two possum skin cloaks that tells our collective story. This project will wrap up by December 2025.

We are also helping to plan how the Chamber will participate in the Royal Assent of the Treaty Bill and a signing ceremony of a Treaty for Victoria that will honours our ancestors and future generations.

Committee Collaboration

I have really valued the chance to meet with other committee convenors. There is a lot of crossovers in our work, and it’s been great to support each other—especially the Youth Voice and Elders Standing Committee convenors.

Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations Sector (ACCO) Design Working Group

I am part of the ACCO Sector Design Working Group, which brings together FPAV members and ACCO representatives. We are exploring how our community will operate in a Treaty era, while respecting the vital role ACCOs continue to play.

Community Engagement

We have been running Treaty forums across the metro region, and it’s been great to see new faces getting involved. I want to acknowledge those who have been part of this journey since 2016—it’s been a long road, but momentum is building. Our electoral roll has now passed 9,000 members, and it’s inspiring to see so many young people stepping up.

NAIDOC 2025

This year’s theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” really resonated. I attended a bunch of events including the Flag Raising, NAIDOC Ball, Elders Lunch, VAHS event, VACCHO Street Party, and the NAIDOC March. It was a powerful week of celebration and reflection.

Treaty Declaration & Sovereign Constitution

We are working on a Treaty Declaration that will express what Treaty means to us—our sovereignty, our kinship systems, and our aspirations. The Yurpa Committee is also helping develop a Sovereign Constitution to guide Gullen Warl’s work, embedding our cultural protocols and ways of doing business.

Treaty Artwork

I’ve had the honour of meeting the artists that created regional artwork for FPAV. Their work reflects our people, culture, and Country. I’m grateful they’ve shared their talents with us.

Treaty Committee & Tripartite Events

As a member of the Treaty Committee, I’ve been involved in shaping the Treaty and especially enjoyed working on the Preamble. We see this as the beginning of a new era—one that will lead to more Treaties in the future.

I’m also part of the Tripartite Working Group planning major Treaty events, including a signing ceremony and end-of-year celebration.

Audit, Risk & Remuneration Committee (ARRC)

I continue to serve on the ARRC, overseeing data sovereignty, risk management, sponsorships, attendance of FPAV members at meetings, Elders Voice remuneration, and the FPAV budget.

Collective Support & Community Forums

We have just wrapped up Stage 3 of our Regional Forums. A big thanks to the staff and members who made it happen. We are now working on data and graphics to reflect community feedback.

Fitzroy Stars

Shoutout to the Fitzroy Stars Women’s team for making the NFNL Grand Final—you’ve done us proud! Best of luck to the Seniors and Reserves in the Prelim Final on 30 August and hopefully the Grand Finals the following week. Go STARS!

Other Engagements

• Attended the ceremony welcoming new Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Michael Bush at AALI.
• Participated in the Wamba Wamba Forum at AALI.
• Attended the opening of the FPAV office in Swan Hill.
• Met with Yorta Yorta Elders to talk about Treaty and their work on Country.
• Delivered presentations with the FPAV Engagement Team to Headspace and the North Metro First Peoples Network.
• Looking forward to the Ganbu Gulin event at Darebin Arts Centre on 31 August.

Billabong Breakfast

I have recently reconnected with the Billabong Breakfast program. It has moved locations a few times, which has affected attendance, but I’ll keep showing up and advocating for a stable space for our Parkies and street community to gather. Thanks to Co-Health, City of Yarra, and others for your support for our Parkies, street community.

Overall Attendance since Assembly 2.0 

• Meetings could attend: 101
• Meetings has attended: 97
• Percentage attendance at all meetings: 96.04%

Overall Attendance at Chambers 

• Chambers required to attend: 13
• Number of Chambers has attended: 13
• Percentage attendance at Chamber: 100%

Attendance for this Quarter 1 May – 31 July 2025 

• Meetings could attend: 19
• Meetings has attended: 19
• Percentage attendance at all meetings: 100%

I am Troy Austin, a proud Gunditjmara man, an Aboriginal man living in an urban setting. I have witnessed the growth of our community in Naarm (Melbourne) and throughout the traditional lands of the 38 plus traditional owner groups across the state of Victoria and beyond. I remember fondly, playing in the back yard of 129 Gertrude Street Fitzroy at the old Victorian Aboriginal Health Service, the community lunches at 108 Smith Street Collingwood, gathering with other children at the Nindebya workshop and as a youth I was a regular at the Fitzroy Stars Aboriginal Community Youth Club Gymnasium and represented my community playing for the Fitzroy Stars Football Club and Melbourne Blacks Basketball Club. As a young man I was inspired by the leadership of Elders and community members working tirelessly in Aboriginal organisations, services and community groups. This year marks a 40-year journey for me, working and advocating for my people.

I acknowledge the 50 Anniversary of the National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC). The amazing resilience of our people is highlighted in the words of the yearly themes that adorn posters and merchandise for this year’s NAIDOC celebration – Strength, Vision and Legacy. The 1976 theme of NAIDOC honoured Truganini, she is often described as the last “full-blooded” Aboriginal Tasmanian and was one of the last speakers of the Tasmanian languages. Other themes include Treat us to a Treaty on Land Rights, White Australia has a Black History, Recognise and Share the Survival of the Oldest Culture in the World and more recently Keep the Fire Burning; Blak Loud and Proud.

I am honoured to be a member of the First Peoples Assembly of Victoria (FPAV), earlier this year I was elevated on to the FPAV Council by my fellow FPAV members and appointed as a co-convenor of the Yurpa committee alongside Aunty Donna Wright.

I have taken on an Increased Responsibilities Role with the FPAV which allows me to focus on the work and initiatives to assist the FPAV to increase the Collective Support of or community members to achieve a Treaty for Victoria, with the intention of signing Australia’s first TREATY later this year.

I am committed to continue valued contributions on the FPAC Council, Yurpa Committee, Cultural Elements Working Goup, Treaty Committee, Audit, Risk & Remuneration Committee, Aboriginal Sector Working Group, Metro Members meetings and other engagements that include supporting the Elders Voice, Youth Voice and community engagements.

Recent work priorities:

I attend a Treaty negotiation in Bendigo that incorporated a ceremony of Djarra, traditional owners, the Premier of Victoria and FPAV members. The ceremony was followed by a meeting of the five FPAV negotiators, the Treaty Authority and the Victorian Government negotiators. I was invited to attend a section of the negotiations to observe the discussions, and I remain confident that the journey towards a Treaty is progressing well.

As co-convenors of the Yurpa Committee, Aunty Donna Wright and I are responsible for progressing projects including the work of the Cultural Elements Working Group (CEWG). These projects include;

• Identifying locations and cultural elements involved in the Treaty ceremonies that has the consent and support of local traditional owners groups, has cultural and historical significance and is accessible to all including Elders, families and those with mobility issues
• Input into the creation of the Treaty Preamble, now in its sixth draft. The Elders’ Voice has provided strong guidance and leadership influencing the drafting of the Treaty Preamble
• Treaty artwork that will represent the 5 regions of FPAV, local artists have been commissioned, and I look forward to meeting with the artist to discuss the elements of their art pieces that will represent their regions
• A possum skin cloak project inclusive of First Nations people across Victoria will provide an opportunity for community members to add messages, motifs, symbols and honour ancestors of traditional owner groups
• An opportunity to incorporate language into Treaty documents in language options

Youth issues remain from and centre as the FPAV Youth Convenors, Alice Peper and Jordan Edwards are committed to engaging youth in our community to ensure the voices of young Aboriginal community members and Torres Strait Islanders are heard. cultural emersion, social & emotional wellbeing and community safety are among the issues that local youth have raised with me as a FPAV metro member.

Engagement activities:

The FPAV elected members, reserve seat holders and engagement team staff continue to reach out to community members and provide opportunities to share information and updates regarding as we continue to walk the path towards a Treaty in Victoria. I thank all those community members and allies that have taken the time to attend community-based events and forums to learn about the Treaty process and share your thoughts and aspirations about what should be incorporated into the Treaty for Victoria.

Some of the activities that I have been involved in include:

• Metro forums at Glenroy, Footscray with other forums scheduled in Richmond and Healesville following the FPAV Chamber meeting in Gariwerd in late June.
• Fitzroy Stars Football Club matches to engage with community members.
• Ballerrt Mooroop community event
• Hume City Council Sorry Day event
• Billabong BBQ Reconciliation event
• A meeting with Carwyn Jones
• Screening of the Our Warrior film about Robbie Thorpe
• A Yurpa meeting with the Elders’ Voice
• Presentation at the Ngwala Leadership and Board of Directors
• Presentation at the Ngwala Willumbong staff members inservice
• Presentation at the Derrimut Weelam, Mabo Day event
• Northern Metro Koorie Education Round Table
• Walk For Truth

The metro members of the FPAV remain committed to implementing the engagement strategy to reach as many community members as possible to ensure that people are informed and feel that they have a strong understanding of the work we are doing to achieve a Treaty in Victoria. I have attended discussions in Wonthaggi, and venues such as Nairm Marr Djambana in Frankston, Wunggurrwil Dhurrung Centre in Wyndham Vale and Derrimut Weelam in Mordialloc. If community members or organisations would like myself and other FPAV to visit your community, please contact us directly, our contacts are listed on the FPAV website or contact our engagement team.

Congratulations to all the nominees and award winners recently announced at the Victorian Aboriginal Honour Role and the NAIDOC Awards. These are prestigious awards that recognised the achievements and contributions within our community.

I would like to congratulate Yoorrook Social Justice Commissioner Travis Lovett on his amazing 500km journey, the Walk For Truth. It was an honour to stand and walk alongside Commissioners Travis Lovett and Commissioner Aunty Elenor Bourke on the final leg of the Walk for Justice as they delivered messages for the communities received during the walk. They also carried the voices of every person that gave evidence at the Yoorrook Royal Commission. I understand that there are 100 recommendations in the Yoorrook final report and look forward to hearing the Victorian Governments response to the report and how they will implement the recommendations. Whilst the work of the Yoorrook Justice Commission has come to an end there is an aspiration to continue truth telling through the Treaty.

Insights:

I was honoured to attend a delegation to Aotearoa (New Zealand) and prior to attending Aotearoa meeting Maori leaders to learn about the Treaty of Waitangi and achievements attained by Maori’s in Aotearoa. I am extremely grateful for the knowledge that has been shared and look to our delegation sharing what we learnt through a more comprehensive report.

• The Maori people of Aotearoa signed the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi to protect the rights and retain authority over their lands, people and treasures in exchange for British sovereignty over Aotearoa. The British interpretation was that the Treaty gave them greater authority than the Maori understood.
• There are various local agreements/ settlements in Aotearoa and some iwi (communities) are yet to settle agreements with the Crown.
• I am interested in the debate that is being held in Aotearoa regarding the Treaty and inherent rights of Maori people.
• The delegation heard about what is possible through a Treaty including, home ownership, investments, Elders accommodation, health care, cultural emersion through education. Agreement making with local Government.
• The delegation was guided though battle grounds, sites of resistance, historical venues that hold the knowledge and cultural items.
• I am humbled to have met so many leaders that have led to the delegation and the short journey that we had in Aotearoa. I cannot thank our host enough, it was an amazing experience, I hope I can return their generosity on day.

We need you to raise your awareness of the work that the FPAV are doing and utilise the FPAV members to gather information and advocate on your behalf. There are numerous opportunities to have your voice heard. I am always available to yarn with you individually or with your family or community group

I am Troy Austin, a proud Gunditjmara man who was born and raised in the northern suburbs of the Melbourne Metropolitan region. I have been fortunate to witness the development of Aboriginal organisations, services and community groups over the past 50 years. Personally, I have been working within Aboriginal community programs and support programs since February 1985. I have witnessed some amazing advancements in the Aboriginal community during this time but I remain concerned that there are numerous social issues that are negatively impacting on our community. I will expand on these issues throughout this report.

I am honoured to be elected to the First Peoples Assembly of Victoria (FPAV) Council at the mid-term elections by my peers. As an extension of my election on to the FPAV Council, I have been appointed as a co-convenor of the Yurpa committee alongside Aunty Donna Wright. I take this opportunity to recognise the amazing leadership of the previous Co-Convenors, Alister Thorpe and Tracey Evans. I cannot speak highly enough of the work that Alister and Tracey have done as the Yurpa Convenors and I look forward to working with them in their new roles as convenors of the Treaty Committee and Audit, Risk & Remuneration Committee respectively.

I am one of ten First Peoples Assembly of Victoria members elected to represent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members living in the Melbourne Metropolitan region. We also have Andrew Gardiner (Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung) and Zoe Upton (Bunurong) who are Reserve Seat Holders responsible for representing their Traditional Owner groups.

Recent work priorities

The focus of our work over the coming months is to embed the practical outcomes into the negotiations with the State Government. We as FPAV members are briefed by our five negotiators who are “at the table” advocating for a Treaty that will provide improved outcomes for our Future Generations. Whilst the negotiations between the FPAV negotiators and the State Government are confidential, us FPAV Members are provided with broad updates. I have full confidence in the FPAV Negotiators, and I am confident that we will be able to announce some updates of the negotiations in the near future.

As a member of the FPAV Audit, Risk, and Remuneration Committee I have a responsibility to ensure that our company continues to comply with the policies & procedures and manage risks that we encounter. It is vital that we maintain accreditations that allows the FPAV to fulfill our commitments to our community members.

As co-convenors of the Yurpa Committee, Aunty Donna and I will also be responsible for the chairing the Cultural Elements Working Group.

I am also a member of the Treaty Committee which meets to ensure that the work of the FPAV is on track and this space provides an opportunity to debate issues and explore proposals that can be considered by the full FPAV Chamber.

Health issues such as substance abuse and mental health remain a concern of community members that I have spoken to. Community members that are homeless, living in poor conditions or at risk of being evicted are interested in having discussions with FPAV members.

Youth issues continue to be a major concern for me. I have had discussions with various community groups about the urgent need to develop a strategy to reduce the level of negative contact Aboriginal youth have with Victoria Police, Courts and the Criminal Justice system. I would like the opportunity for the FPAV to work with Youth Justice and the Aboriginal Justice Caucus to explore opportunities to reduce the incarceration of our young community members.

Engagement activities

The FPAV and the community have had a busy start to 2025, I had the absolute honour of attending the following events that were held in the first quarter of the year. Attendance at these events demonstrate strong support for the work that the FPAV are doing as we progress towards achieving a Treaty for Victoria in partnership with the State Government of Victoria:

• Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations Forum in Preston
• Traditional Owner Forum in Melbourne (MCEC)
• Statewide Treaty Forum in Yarra Park (MCG)
• Treaty Day Out in Morwell
• State Negotiations Event in Portland

The metro members of the FPAV have developed an engagement strategy that will guide our work and provide opportunities for community members to attend Treaty gatherings similar to those that have been held in Wonthaggi, and venues such as Nairm Marr Djambana in Frankston and Wunggurrwil Dhurrung Centre in Wyndham Vale. If community members or organisations would like us to visit your community, please contact us directly or contact our engagement team.

The Yalingbuth Yalingbu Yirramboi event that I attended in Healesville to commemorate the closure of the Coranderrk Aboriginal Station in 1924. The Ilbijerri Theatre Company’s performance of “Coranderrk” provided an understanding of this historical event.

A follow up meeting with the Blak Creative Arts Caucus will assist me in my work as the co-convenor of the Yurpa committee to embed cultural elements into the activities of the FPAV and our negotiations with the State Government.

Congratulations to all the nominees and award winners that attended the Ricci Marks Awards recently. This is a prestigious award that recognised the achievements and contributions of young people in our community. I attended this event alone with Uncle Andrew Gardiner and Nicole Atkinson from the FPAV and we were truly impressed with the quality of nominees for the Ricci Marks Award and Rising Star Award.

I am interested in hearing any feedback about the Back-to-School Family Day held at the Sir Doug Nicholls Oval held in January as we will be undertaking a review of the day to build on the success of this event over the last two years.

Insights

As the cost of living continues to rise the dream of home ownership for many is becoming a dream that is out of reach. I would like to see the development of a strategy that provides support and advise to community members that are endeavouring to purchase a home.

Homelessness, overcrowding and the threat of evictions continue to be a concern that community members raise with me personally and in community settings. I am aware that Aboriginal Housing Victoria have been travelling to communities across Victoria, and I look forward to hearing feedback about the issues that have been raised and how the housing needs of our community can be addressed.

Community members have raised issues about NDIS ranging from concerns that they have with their current provider, knowledge of how to access NDIS or the level of difficulty to register for NDIS. The NDIS structure appears to be a large beast. I am sure that there is a lot of support being provided to community members but there appears to be a level of frustration from community members. I will endeavor to increase my knowledge of NDIS and identify a process for referring queries to the appropriate agency / providers.

Implementation

I commenced the Increased Responsibility Role with the FPAV on 6 January 2025. This provides me with the opportunity to increase my engagement with the local community and provides me with greater autonomy to represent the community without the challenge of juggling two positions and having to avoid potential or perceived conflicts of interest.

I am always grateful and humbled that community members feel confident to share issues with me, I am absolutely committed to advocating on their behalf in an endeavour to achieve improved outcomes.

I encourage all community members to obtain a copy of the Practical Outcomes that the

FPAV are utilising to guide our negotiations with the State Government of Victoria. The Practical Outcomes have been developed as a result of the extensive engagements and consultations attended by our community members. The ongoing attendance at Treaty based events and continued feedback demonstrate strong collective support for a Treaty for Victoria and the work of the FPAV.

Looking ahead

I am excited and look forward to participating in the Walk for Justice with Yoorrook Commissioner Travis Lovett. This initiative will raise awareness of the Yoorrook Commission and issues that have been raised with the Yoorrook Commissioners.

I am committed to working with the Blak Pearl group and the Billabong program to support the work that they are doing to support the “Parkies” (street community) who live day by day in disadvantaged circumstances.

I am fortunate to obtain a ticket to attend a screening of Our Warrior: The Story of Robbie Thorpe. I have been fortunate to witness Robbie’s advocacy over many decades and I look forward to seeing and hearing how his journey has been captured.

I would like to provide opportunities for community members to meet with me and other FPAV members in an informal setting, this will be in addition to the formal forums and community engagement sessions that are organised by our engagement team.

The Koori Youth Council has announced the dates for the upcoming Koori Youth Summit, 1921 May 2025. I encourage youth in the community to contact the Koori Youth Council to find out additional details of this exciting event.

I attended a performance by David Arden: Meerta – Rise Up, The Ballard of James Arden. I thoroughly enjoyed this show and the wonderful story telling of David Arden supported by some great artists. This show will be travelling around Victoria, I recommend it to anyone thinking of attending this event.

Thank you

We need you to raise your awareness of the work that the FPAV are doing and utilise the FPAV members to gather information and advocate on your behalf. There are numerous opportunities to have your voice heard. I am always available to yarn with you individually or with your family or community group.

My name is Troy Austin, I am a proud Gunditjmara man born and raised in the inner suburbs of Melbourne on Wurundjeri Woiwurrung land. I pay my respects to Wurundjeri Elders both past and present and their descendants.

As per my previous update, the past few months have been a difficult time for our community, there has been so many community members that have entered the Dreamtime and I send my love and deepest sympathies to everyone that has lost a loved one, friend or colleague during this time. I acknowledge the passing of my Uncle Lawrence Austin (Locky) and send my love to my family members as we mourn his passing. Uncle Locky was a Commonwealth Champion boxer and a legend in and out of the boxing ring.

The past 18 months have been challenging as I have been juggling a number of responsibilities including my role as a Metropolitan Elected Member of the First Peoples Assembly of Victoria (FPAV) and Executive Officer of the North Metro RAJAC Executive Officer as well as local community commitments. I am pleased to inform you that I have been successful in my nomination to commence an Increased Responsibility Role at the FPAV for the remainder of my term. I have hit the ground running working from the FPAV office in Collingwood and visiting local organisations and yarning with community members.

I am committed to maintaining my attendance at the Treaty Committee and Yurpa Committee meetings. I continue to make strong contributions at these meeting as well as the two workstreams that have been shaping the work of FPAV. These committees have focused on the development of a Treaty for the Future Generations and strategies to Strengthen Culture, Community and our Families. Given the previous part time nature of my tenure on the FPAV I believe I have fulfilled my obligation to represent the Metropolitan Aboriginal community at these forums. I look forward to now increasing my output and engagement with Aboriginal community members, organisations and mainstream groups to advance a Treaty for Victoria.

I attended the 40-year anniversary of the Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Incorporated late last year to congratulate their staff and management on the work they continue to coordinate in our community. The sports carnivals, debutante balls, community services courses, youth, justice, housing programs etc were highlighted at the event. Life memberships were awarded to Elders that had made significant contributions to VACSAL and the community.

I am looking forward to the upcoming Statewide Treaty meeting being held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. I am interested in hearing from community members and identify whether the community feel that their messages are being heard by the FPAV. The Regional Forums across Victoria, Statewide Treaty meeting held in Geelong, Treaty Day Out, Treaty in the Park, sporting carnivals, movie nights have provided us Members with the opportunity to listen to our community and pull together practical outcomes and priorities for our Treaty negotiations with the State Government of Victoria. The Premier, Jacinta Allen and her cabinet along with Margaret Gardiner, Governor General of Victoria demonstrated a commitment to work towards a Treaty for Victoria at an amazing ceremony to announce the commencement of Treaty negotiations.

After attending the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies conference in 2024 I will attend either in person or online the 2025 conference. I found the experience of attending the AIATSIS conference to be so enlightening and I was humbled to hear of all the advancements that are being achieved around the country.

I have attended events at Barbunnin Beek in West Heidelberg and congratulate the Board members and volunteers on the work that they are doing to support the community, providing various community activities, providing hampers through their food share project and facilitating the First Peoples Network meetings. I joined our Treaty Engagement Team and provided a presentation to the First Peoples Network about the work of the FPAV and the work that is being done on the Treaty for Victoria.

The Fitzroy Stars Football and Netball Club have commenced their preseason in preparation for the 2025 season. Hopefully the men’s football sides can win the Premiership this year after losing the Grand Final in 2024. I also look forward to supporting the women’s football, netball and junior teams during 2025.

I attended the Treaty Cup Basketball Match in 2024 and look forward to seeing this event grow in 2025. The Indigenous Basketball Academy continues to grow and provide opportunities for aspiring Basketballers.

I enjoyed an event at the Hume Community Dinner at which Alan Thorpe from Dardi Munwurro spoke about the work he is doing to support community members. The Mayor provided an inspiring speech that talked about community and people coming together. What I loved about this event was that it was an Aboriginal themed event but it was attended by a diversity of communities coming together to celebrate culture and unity, we need more of these activities.

The Victorian Aboriginal Education Association of Victoria, First Peoples Assembly of Victoria, Dhelk Dja North Metro Action Group and the North Metro RAJAC as well as many other organisations such as VACSAL, AALI, Fitzroy Stars, ACES joined together to conduct the Back To School Day to support Aboriginal students and their families to prepare for the 2025 school year.

I was honoured to witness the unveiling of Uncle Archie Roach and Aunty Ruby Hunter’s statues at the Atherton Gardens. The statue stands as a tribute to the music of two of our community legends but also recognises their connections to local community. It was a proud moment for our community and Uncle Archie’s and Aunty Ruby’s family and friends. My heart was bursting with pride seeing their smiling faces looking over the “square’ where they once shared good times with their “mob”.

The FPAV are committed to ensuring that data sovereignty is protected and remains with Aboriginal people.

There is community concern at the decisive politics that are being used to drive a wedge between the Australian community. It is shameful that issues such as the legitimacy of the Aboriginal flag and the Australia Day debate are being used to gain political points. These issues are creating racis m being experienced by our community members, particularly within the Education sector and local sporting venues.

Community groups and individuals have publicly voiced their opposition to the Victorian Governments decision to reverse a commitment to raise the age of criminal responsibility to 14 years of age, The State Government have instead maintained their commitment to raise the age of criminal responsibility to 12 years of age. Many in the community do not believe this decision goes far enough.

I am looking forward to travelling throughout the Metropolitan region to engage with community members and provide updates to community members about the work that the FPAV achieved in the first 18 months of our new term. I will also seek feedback from community members on their thoughts about priority areas that will shape the Treaty as we get closer to signing a Treaty in Victoria. It is exciting as we are closer than we have ever been to achieving a Treaty in Victoria.

I am committed to working with the FPAV Youth Voice Convenors and Koorie Youth Council representatives to establish a commitment to address the issues that are impacting our Aboriginal Youth in the Metropolitan area and across Victoria. We need individuals, families, Aboriginal Organisations and businesses and mainstream agencies to commit to supporting our youth to overcome the challenges they are currently experiencing.

I attended a Christmas Event at the Blak Pearl and a number of issues were raised with me. These issues include the need to support community members to access supports such as housing and NDIS. The community members also discussed the need for investment in Blak Pearl so that the local community group can provide much needed support and services to Aboriginal community members experiencing homelessness, addictions and other social justice issues.

I have put a call out to the community, Aboriginal organisations and mainstream services for assistance to help the Melbourne Aboriginal Youth, Sport and Recreation (MAYSAR) Cooperative to rebuild community support, health and fitness programs from our iconic building in Gertrude Street Fitzroy. For transparency purposes, please note that I am a MAYSAR Board member.

I encourage all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members throughout Victoria to reach out to your local FPAV members to share your thoughts about a Treaty in Victoria, There are some great engagement opportunities coming your way soon, please take the opportunity to learn more about the work that is being done and the opportunities that lie ahead for our families and communities, Our Elders laid the foundation for our rights to be recognised, it is up to all of us to enshrine a Treaty for Future Generations that honours the visions they had for their descendants.

Member update not submitted.

Region: Metropolitan
Reserved Seat: No

Member Content

My name is Troy Austin, I am a proud Gunditjmara man born and bred in the Inner Suburbs of Melbourne on Wurundjeri Woiwurrung land. I pay my respects to their Elders both past and present and their descendants.

The past few months have been a difficult time for our community., there has been so many community members that have entered the Dreamtime, and I send my love and deepest sympathies to everyone that has lost a loved one, friend or colleague during this time.

Personally, I have continued to juggle a number of responsibilities including my role as an Elected Member of the First Peoples Assembly of Victoria (FPAV) and Executive Officer of the North Metro RAJAC Executive Officer as well as local community commitments.

I have committed to attending the regular Treaty Committee and Yurpa Committee meetings as well as the two workstreams that have been established to shape a body that will implement a Treaty for the Future Generations and Strengthening Culture, Community and our Families. I’ve consistently attended the Chamber, Treaty and Yurpa Committee meetings and have recorded a 92% attendance rate. Given the part time nature of my tenure on the FPAV I believe I am fulfilling my obligations to represent the Metropolitan Aboriginal community at these meetings.

I attended the 40-year anniversary of the Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Incorporated.

Following on from the Statewide Treaty meeting held in Geelong earlier this year the Metro Treaty Forum also provided community members with an opportunity to learn more about the activities of the FPAV and seek answers to any queries that they had. I have been privileged to attend these forums as well as the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies conference that the FPAV co-hosted.

A Reconciliation Week event at Barbunnin Beek in West Heidelberg provided various community activities for the community and was a great opportunity to celebrate the good work that is being done in the local community in Banyule and neighbouring communities. The First Peoples Network Meeting was also held at Barbunnin Beek, providing an opportunity for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal groups with an opportunity to celebrate achievements and promote services & programs available to the local community. The Treaty Engagement Team was in attendance at both of these community events.

NAIDOC events throughout July including a NAIDOC Community Day at the AALI, Fitzroy Stars Football Matches for Men and Women, Treaty Cup Basketball Match, Hume Community Dinner, NAIDOC Flag Raising, Kangan TAFE event with The Long Walk, Elders Luncheon, Government House Reception with the Governor, NAIDOCV March and NAIDOC Balls in the North Metro and West Metro regions.

The FPAV are committed to ensuring that data sovereignty is protected and remains with Aboriginal people.

I remain concerned about the level of racism being experienced by our community members particularly within the Education sector and at local sporting venues.

Community groups and individuals have publicly voiced their opposition to the Victorian Governments decision to reverse it’s decision to raise the age of criminality responsibility to 14 years of age, The State Government have maintained their commitment to raise the age to 12 but many in the community do not believe that this decision goes far enough,

The FPAV Chamber meeting in Portland in June was a productive forum and allowed the Chamber to consider priority areas that could be included in a Statewide Treaty and identify strategies that will allow us to be effective in our deliberations leading into future negotiations with the State Government.

The FPAV submitted our Declaration of Readiness to the Treaty Authority signalling our intention to negotiate with the State of Victoria. I have promoted the opportunity for community members to register their support or comments in relation to the FPAV intention to negotiate a Treaty, these comments are to be received by 17 September 2024.

The Launch of the Treaty Authority at the Treetops Melbourne Museum was a historic occasion and signified the importance of the work that is being achieved as we set our sights on achieving Australia’s first Treaty, It was significant that our FPAV members met at the Fig Tree at the top of Gertrude Street Fitzroy where our Elders would gather long before we had Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.

The ACCOs Sector meeting held with FPAV members in Preston provided an opportunity for clarification about the role of ACCOs once a TREATY is negotiated. The ACCOs and FPAV members committed to coming together later in the year to resume these discussions.

I have joined the Youth Voice Working Group and have welcomed the discussions to consider how the Youth Voice being established by FPAV will engage and work with the Koorie Youth Council and local youth groups across the state. This is an exciting opportunity to inform our youth about Treaty and strengthen young peoples voices and advocacy in Victoria.

I am looking forward to the Chamber meeting in Swan Hill and the opportunity to meet with the Elders Voice.
I welcome the new members of the FPAV; Lowana Moore, Reserve Seat Holder for the Wamba Wemba Traditional Owner Group and Lisa Briggs, Elected Metro Member. I also thank Shane Charles for his time on the FPAV, it was a pleasure working with Shane over the past 12 months.

I encourage all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members throughout Victoria to reach out to your local FPAV members to share your thoughts about a Treaty in Victoria, There are some great engagement opportunities coming your way soon, please take the opportunity to learn more about the work that is being done and the opportunities that lie ahead for our families and communities, Our Elders laid the foundations for our rights to be recognised, it is up to all of us to enshrine a Treaty for Future Generations that honours their visions for their descendants.

My name is Troy Austin. I am a proud Gunditjmara man, born and raised in the northern suburbs of Melbourne. I am honoured to have been elected as a Metropolitan member on the First Peoples Assembly of Victoria (Assembly) to represent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members across Melbourne and throughout Victoria.

The Assembly has progressed a lot of initiatives since we were elected in June 2023, building on the foundational work of the inaugural Assembly. The Yoorrook Justice Commission, Self Determination Fund and Treaty Authority are major establishments that have been achieved by the Assembly.

The standing up of the Elders Voice, a Youth Voice, the recent Statewide Gathering and Regional Gatherings that are being held across Victora, will help the Assembly set our priorities for negotiations with the State Government.

Since joining the Assembly I have been committed to developing my knowledge of the various elements of the Assembly’s work and gaining an understanding various documents and frameworks that are designed to navigate the pathway to achieving a Treaty in Victoria.

I am committed to two workstreams of the Assembly:

• Workstream 1 – Future Assembly and Transformed Relationships and
• Workstream 3 – Strengthening Culture, Communities and Families

These two committees will help shape what a future Assembly will look like, consider how decisions will be made through a future voice of our people and continue truth telling and healing initiatives. I have always been committed to improving Justice and Social Justice outcomes for our people and I continue to strive for advancements in Health, Housing, Employment and Education.

I am a member of the Yurpa Committee that is responsible for strengthening the cultural governance of the Assembly. I am also a member of the Treaty Committee that supports the Chamber in relation to progressing a Treaty and the Self Determination Fund.

Whilst a majority of my community consultation has been centred in the northern suburbs I am committed to visiting other areas throughout the metropolitan region to hear their local issues and witnessing firsthand the amazing work that is being done.

I recently attended the VACSAL 40 Year Anniversary and was proud to be present to hear the induction of Aunty Margaret Atkinson, Uncle John Gorrie and Uncle Phil Cooper as Life members of the organisation. I am a regular attendee at the Fitzroy Stars men’s and women’s football matches. I have attended community engagements at Barbunnin Beek, Wandarra Aboriginal Corporation and I attended the Ngarra Jarra Noun Healing Ceremony. I was proud to hear the Chief Commissioner of Police gave an unconditional apology to the Stolen Generation. I also attended the weeklong Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies conference which I found to be an amazing experience.

I am concerned about the level of racism that is being reported in schools, on the sporting fields and in the general community. Racism appears to have escalated since the failed Voice Referendum but maybe it is just being reported more as our mob are committed to calling it out and saying Enough Is Enough!!!

This is a small snapshot of the work that I have been doing and I welcome the opportunity to expand on this report with you in the future. In the meantime, I encourage everyone to attend the Assembly’s regional discussions or our local engagements that are being held throughout your local communities so you can have your say and hear about the work that we are doing by the Assembly.

I would like to wish everyone a very happy NAIDOC, stay Blak, Loud and Proud and Keep The Fires Burning.  If you see me out and about be sure to come and have a yarn.

Kind regards,

Troy Austin

FPAV Metro Member

I pay my respects to the Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation and honour their Elders both past and present. I thank them for allowing me to live, work and play on their land and raise my family in Naarm.

My name is Troy Austin, I am a proud man of the Fighting Gunditjmara. I was born and raised in the Northern suburbs of Melbourne. I have been fortunate to witness the growth and achievements of many Aboriginal organisations from humble beginnings in Fitzroy. Our organisations are now considered among the best in their fields.

My community contribution commenced around 1985 when I decided it was my time to leave school and go to work with my dad, Jock Austin at the Fitzroy Stars Aboriginal Community Youth Club Gymnasium following the sad and untimely death of his brother and co-worker, my Uncle John ‘Longfella’ Austin.

Other positions I have held include the Tumbukka Regional Chairperson of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) representing western half of Victoria from the North West Metro Area up to Mildura and across to Portland. I was a members of Steve Bracks’s Premiers Advisory Committee and was instrumental in the establishment of organisations such as those now known as the Koorie Youth Council and Djirra. I became the ATSIC Commissioner of Victoria representing our State at the National level until the Howard Government closed ATSIC stripping our people of our voice at local, regional, national and even international levels after a mere 10 years of existence. I worked for Aboriginal Affairs Victoria and led consultations across Victoria to establish 38 Local Aboriginal Networks. I am currently the Executive Officer for the North Metro Regional Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee, a position I have held since 2005.

I have a personal passion for the Fitzroy Stars Football and Netball Club dating back to 1978. I enjoy a game of Golf with my fellow members of the Indigenous Golf Association Victoria, and I follow the 2023 AFL Premiers the Collingwood Football Club.

Among the priority areas that I am focussed on include Youth Justice, Justice, Health, Housing, Education, Child Protection and Sport and Recreation. It is challenging to see Aboriginal Children in detention and the level of incarceration of Aboriginal community members breaks my heart. The recent report that only four of the targets in the Closing the Gap strategy are being met reinforced the need for Treaty/Treaties and calls for Aboriginal people to take control of portfolios that impact on our people. True self-determination means that Aboriginal people should be developing initiatives and strategies to address the needs of our community and we should be properly resourced to deliver spiritual, cultural, physical and emotional care of our people.

My engagement activities include attending the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria run community engagements. I believe that these engagements are important and provide the opportunity for community members to come together to discuss issues, engage with FPAV staff, Elected members and Traditional Owner representatives. I encourage the attendance at these events as it keeps community members informed and provides an opportunity for us members to engage and stay connected to the community and meet new people. I have had the privilege of hearing what is happening in people’s lives and what their thoughts are about the benefits or challenges that the concept of a Treaty presents.

My engagement activities have included yarns with community members at meetings and community events. It is promising to witness firsthand how invested community members are in the Treaty process. Community members understand that we are in the early stages of developing a Treaty with the State Government in Victoria, but they are eager to see the detail of what a Treaty will look like.

I look forward to hearing the enthusiasm of youth voices and the continued wisdom of Elders as we move towards the development of a Treaty in Victoria.

During my time with ATSIC I travelled throughout Victoria to hear the voices of Elders and other community members and what their thoughts were of a National Treaty. Our motto back then, in the early 2000’s was Treaty – Let’s Get It Right! That motto is still relevant today as we begin negotiations for State and local Treaties here in Victoria. We are all determined to get to a Treaty, and it is well and truly overdue, but I believe that we must get it right, as there may not be opportunities to rectify the Agreement in the future. What we negotiate today will impact our Children, Grandchildren and generations to come, “Let’s Get It Right”.

I support the structures that have been established by the inaugural FPAV members, they have set a strong foundation for the current structure and Governance of the FPAV and this has placed it on a solid position to strengthen our hand in negotiations with the State Government. The work of the Yoorrook Justice Commission and recently announced Treaty Authority provides greater clarity and transparency than anything that has preceded this current structure. The FPAV are 100 per cent committed to walking with our community and this continued at the recent Treaty Day Out event and the upcoming Statewide Treaty Gathering where we will listen intently to your thoughts and directions as well as share our personal and collective aspirations.