NSW urged to talk about treaty
A large Aboriginal organisation is pushing for a treaty.
The New South Wales Aboriginal Land Council wants a “chance to heal the past”, and is calling on both sides of politics to agree to treaty negotiations.
The council says a treaty is one of the central priorities for its 23,000 members.
“Our people are ready to take the next steps, which we believe should lead to a treaty in New South Wales,” Council chairman Roy Ah See said.
Mr Ah See said the council wants a treaty model that boosts economic development.
“A treaty is a practical way for New South Wales to deepen Aboriginal participation in the economy,” he said.
Treaty negotiations are underway in other states.
Both the Victorian and South Australian governments are already in talks about state-based treaties.
The talks in Victoria began in 2016, but formal negotiations may not start until 2020.
South Australia commenced treaty discussions with Ngarrindjeri people last week.
The SA Government has committed $4.4 million over the next five years to the process.