The Treaty Authority welcomes the appointment of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria’s Co-chairs, Meriki Onus (Gunnai and Gunditjmara) and Djaran Murray-Jackson (Dja Dja Wurrung, Wamba Wamba, Yorta Yorta, Dhudhuroa, Waywurru, Barapa Barapa, Wergaia and Wiradjuri).
The Assembly met on Dja Dja Wurrung Country last week for the first Chamber meeting of its new term following the state-wide Assembly elections last month, in which First Peoples in Victoria turned out to vote for new Members.
On Thursday 7 May, Assembly Members elected Meriki Onus and Djaran Murray-Jackson as the new Co-chairs, who will lead the Assembly as it transitions to a permanent representative body for First Peoples in Victoria within Gellung Warl – an independent, statutory body.
The creation of Gellung Warl was achieved through the Statewide Treaty, which was finalised last year. Gellung Warl was formally established on 1 May 2026, in line with the full commencement of the legislation that gives effect to the Statewide Treaty.
Gellung Warl has three arms, including the Assembly, an accountability function, Nginma Ngainga Wara and a truth-telling body, Nyerna Yoorrook Telkuna.
The Treaty Authority is the independent body that oversees and facilitates treaty-making in Victoria and conducted this role during negotiations for Statewide Treaty.
Jidah Clark, Djab Wurrung man and Treaty Authority Chair, said:
“The Treaty Authority extends our warm congratulations to Meriki and Djaran on their appointment as Co-chairs, as they take the baton to lead the transition to Gellung Warl. This is an exciting moment as we watch Victoria’s Aboriginal democracy strengthen after decades of Community-led advocacy.”
Dr Petah Atkinson, Yorta Yorta woman and Treaty Authority Member, said:
“Congratulations to all the new and returning Assembly Members and the new Co-chairs. The leadership of the Assembly is in strong hands and we look forward to seeing the outcomes of Statewide Treaty unfold for the benefit of all Victorians.”
Media contact: For interviews or more information, contact Megan Giles on 0472 508 001 or [email protected]
