As a proud Taungurung woman with deep family lines throughout Victoria, I am honoured to be elected as the Taungurung Representative on the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria. I want to thank my people for placing their trust in me to represent them at the Treaty table.

Growing up in rural Victoria, I understand the unique challenges our Mob face in the regions. Deeply entrenched poverty and having to navigate systems that were never designed for us means that access to services and genuine economic opportunities, can often feel out of reach. Treaty must deliver real change for our communities, no matter where they live. It needs to break down barriers, create new opportunities, and ensure that Traditional Owners and all First Peoples across the state are supported to care for Country, strengthen community, and build a strong future for the next generations.

I am passionate about ensuring our Elders are respected and elevated in decision-making, that our young people are empowered and have a voice, and that opportunities are created for future generations. Treaty is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reshape our future on our own terms. It is about truth-telling, justice, and ensuring the next generations inherit a legacy of strength, culture, and sovereignty.

This is not something that can be done alone—it must be done together. I encourage all First Peoples to be part of the conversation, to share your voices, and to help shape this journey. I will always be available to listen, to learn, and to advocate for the needs of our community.

I look forward to working alongside you all as we negotiate a Treaty that reflects the strength and resilience of our people and ancestors.

Warrawii-ngat yuwang-ngal-in.

(Let’s stand together.)

Member Updates

March 2025 — Meeting of Assembly at Traralgon

My name is Kaley Nicholson and I am the elected Representative Seat Holder for the Taungurung Nation in the North East Region. My family lines are Taungurung, Bunurong/Boonwurrung, Yorta Yorta, Barapa Barapa, Wemba Wemba, Mutthi Mutthi, Latji Latji, Wiradjuri.

My main priority has been finding my feet in the Assembly and getting up to speed with where negotiations are at, what the key outcomes are expected to be and how they’ll benefit Mob across the state.

I attended the Taungurung Treaty Readiness camp in February – this was supported by the North East engagement team and the Policy team. We did the Treaty for Generations workshop and had some deadly merch for Mob in attendance.

Taungurung Land and Waters Council (TLaWC) members are confused about the difference between Statewide Treaty and Traditional Owner Treaties. They are unclear on what a Statewide Treaty will achieve.

I am focused on providing clarity to members about the difference between Statewide and Traditional Owner Treaties and what they may achieve. I am also focused on encouraging members to enrol/update their enrolment details with FPAV to ensure their input is captured in broader processes.

I am providing some key detail in the TLaWC Newsletter around the Statewide Treaty – this is supported by additional information from the TLaWC Treaty Manager on the Taungurung Treaty so that members can increase their knowledge and awareness of each Treaty.

My first month on The Assembly has been deadly – the Co-Chairs and the other members have been so welcoming and helpful in making sure I am up to speed on where the work is at and my confidence is growing as the weeks progress.

If any community members have any feedback or would like to arrange a visit please feel free to reach out!