Friday, 5 November 2004
Commissioner welcomes constitutional recognition for historical truth
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner, Tom Calma, today congratulated the Victorian Parliament for passing a constitutional amendment bill which acknowledges Indigenous people as the original custodians of the state’s land.
“The Victorian Government and opposition parties are to be congratulated for making Victoria the first state in Australia to recognise Indigenous people in its constitution,” said Mr Calma.
“While legal rights are not conferred by the amendment, it is nevertheless important to Indigenous people that their unique status as the original owners of the land is recognised at the constitutional level.
Commissioner Calma said the next step is to turn these symbolic gestures into real outcomes for Indigenous people.
“It is important for instance that the traditional owners of Victoria are able to participate in and enjoy the benefits of developments that take place on their land,” the Commissioner said.
'The amendment to Victoria's constitution can be more than the simple recognition of an historical truth. It can provide an opportunity to learn from the past and ensure that the original custodians continue to play a significant role in contemporary society.”
The Commissioner encouraged other states to follow a similar path in recognising the traditional owners of their lands, welcoming plans being considered in Western Australia to change the WA constitution to recognise Indigenous people as its first inhabitants.
Media enquiries: Paul Oliver, (02) 9284 9677 or 0408 469 347
Last updated 5 November 2004.
