Historic Truth-Telling Inquiry Declares Genocide Against Indigenous Australians in Victoria

In a landmark revelation, the Yoorrook Justice Commission, Australia's first formal truth-telling inquiry, has concluded that British colonists committed acts of genocide against Indigenous Australians in the state of Victoria. This comprehensive four-year investigation, established in 2021, marks a pivotal moment in acknowledging the historical and ongoing injustices faced by First Peoples since colonization began in 1834.

Key Findings of the Yoorrook Justice Commission

The Commission's final report, tabled in the Victorian Parliament, details a series of atrocities committed during and after European settlement, including:

- Mass killings and massacres leading to significant loss of life among Indigenous communities.

- Spread of diseases, often exacerbated by displacement and poor living conditions.

- Forced child removals, contributing to the Stolen Generations.

- Cultural erasure, including the suppression of languages and traditions.

- Environmental degradation of lands traditionally cared for by Indigenous peoples.

The report states that these actions led to a catastrophic decline in the Indigenous population of Victoria, from an estimated 60,000 before colonization to just 15,000 by 1851. The Commission unequivocally labels these acts as genocide, emphasizing that the sovereignty of Indigenous Victorians has never been ceded.

Recommendations for Redress and Reform

The Yoorrook Justice Commission has put forward 100 recommendations aimed at addressing both historical and ongoing injustices. Key proposals include:

- Establishment of a permanent First Peoples' Assembly with decision-making powers over policies affecting Indigenous communities.

- Land rights reforms, including the return of lands unjustly taken and tax exemptions on natural resources for Traditional Owners.

- Comprehensive education reforms to incorporate Indigenous histories and perspectives into the curriculum.

- Justice system overhauls, such as raising the age of criminal responsibility and creating independent oversight bodies for police conduct.

- Formal apologies and reparations for past injustices, including the exclusion of Indigenous soldiers from post-war land grants.

Government Response and Next Steps

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has acknowledged the significance of the Commission's findings, stating that the government will carefully consider all recommendations. She emphasized the importance of truth-telling in forging a shared future and committed to working in partnership with Aboriginal communities to implement meaningful reforms.

The Yoorrook Justice Commission's work represents a crucial step towards reconciliation, providing a platform for Indigenous voices and laying the groundwork for systemic change. As Victoria moves forward, the implementation of these recommendations will be instrumental in addressing the deep-seated inequities that persist to this day.