General News
24 March, 2026
DJAARA takes next treaty step
DJA DJA Wurrung has applied to the Treaty Commission for approval to form a delegation to begin the process for a local treaty stretching across central Victoria and the Loddon Shire.
The Aboriginal corporation says it is still discussing what will be part of the local treaty.
Deputy chair and First Peoples Assembly representative Djaran Murray Jackson said: “DJAARA is working towards Treaty according to the Treaty Negotiation Process. We’re currently in the formal process of forming a delegation. Several steps remain before negotiations would actually commence.
“Conversations with Djaara mob are ongoing. We’re taking the time to get this right. While we haven’t finalised our aspirations for treaty, discussions have included expanding our capabilities to care for Country - in line with our cultural obligation to leave healthy Country for future generations. Wanyarra Dum (frog ponds) in Bendigo is an example: this site next to the Bendigo Creek was previously degraded following gold mining and development. DJAARA led a multi-partner project to heal this site, which can now be enjoyed by everyone.
“Another aspiration that has been put forward for possible inclusion is an Elders facility so that our Elders can return to Djandak (Dja Dja Wurrung Country).
“We’re also talking about delivering more housing for Djaara people on Djandak - which would help alleviate the housing crisis for central Victorians more generally. This is linked to Mayam Mayam, the Dja Dja Wurrung Housing Strategy.
“It’s important to note that these are some of the practical outcomes our community aspires to. Once we are negotiating, whenever that may be, we hope that those aspirations can be delivered as practical outcomes of a Dja Dja Wurrung treaty.“