In 2019, the Department of Treasury and Finance (DTF) established a Self-Determination Taskforce to develop and oversee a plan to advance self-determination and fulfill commitments under the Victorian Aboriginal Affairs Framework 2018-2023 (VAAF) and the Self-Determination Reform Framework.
In May 2020, the Taskforce prepared Advancing Self-Determination in DTF, outlining the Department's initial steps to promote self-determination reforms.
Our Self-Determination and Treaty Taskforce (the Taskforce) works to advance and embed self-determination, progress actions on the Closing the Gap priority reforms, and support DTF’s preparation for and engagement in the State’s Treaty negotiations.
The Taskforce is focused on three main areas:
Self-determination in the State Budget process
The Taskforce is developing options, actions, and recommendations to reform State Budget processes, enabling greater self-determination for First Peoples.
The Productivity Commission's Review of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap recommended several mechanisms to incorporate First Peoples' community decision-making in Budget priorities and outcomes. These recommendations include:
- Supporting direct and ongoing engagement with First Peoples partners on issues that affect them to enhance accountability and self-determination.
- Ensuring Budget submissions demonstrate the impact of proposed policies on First Peoples and how they align with the Closing the Gap priority reforms.
A more inclusive DTF and advancing self-determination
The Taskforce is committed to developing actions and recommendations to embed self-determination and enhance cultural safety across DTF operations. This includes exploring ways to increase representation within DTF’s workforce. All actions will align with and support progress on the DTF-related Closing the Gap priority reforms.
Additionally, the Taskforce will consider incorporating new mechanisms into DTF's regular activities to ensure that First Peoples’ voices and ideas are integral to the Department's work.
Preparing for and supporting Treaty negotiations
The Taskforce will identify key gaps and priorities to ensure DTF is prepared to support the State of Victoria’s Treaty process. Additionally, the Taskforce will establish a regular forum for cross-division discussions and consideration of reform matters, facilitating comprehensive and coordinated support for Treaty negotiations.