Australia's First Truth-Telling Inquiry Reveals Genocide Against Aboriginal People in Victoria

Australia's first formal truth-telling inquiry revealed that crimes against humanity and genocide were committed against Aboriginal people in Victoria. The Yoorrook Justice Commission's final report, based on a four-year investigation, made 100 recommendations to address the impacts of colonization. The report highlighted mass killings, disease, cultural erasure, and other atrocities as part of the genocide. It recommended compensating Victorian First Peoples through treaties with interest and called for a treaty framework to provide redress for past injustices. Other recommendations included enhancing land rights, establishing a permanent First Peoples' Assembly, and promoting ongoing truth-telling initiatives.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan became the first Australian government leader to give evidence at an Indigenous-led truth-telling inquiry. The commission also called for more markers and memorials at massacre sites, Aboriginal place names, and initiatives to improve health, housing, and education outcomes for Victoria's First Peoples. The Yoorrook Justice Commission, running for over four years, is the longest state-run royal commission in Victoria.

According to the source: Australian Broadcasting Corporation.