ASRC Statement Commiting to Treaty

The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is proud to acknowledge the Wurundjeri and Bunurong people, Traditional Owners of the lands where we work across Victoria through our service delivery to people seeking asylum and refugees. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and acknowledge First Nations People’s unceded sovereignty. We recognise and celebrate their continuing connections to land, waters, communities, cultures and customs.

Our vision is that all people in Australia, First Nations People and those who have come here seeking asylum, can live safely, sustainably, independently, and equally. We imagine a future where the cultures, histories, and rights of First Nations People are recognised and valued by all, becoming a proud and integral part of our shared national identity.

With profound respect for the sovereignty, culture, and rights of First Peoples, we are pleased to announce that we will walk with the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria on the journey to Treaty. We recognise that when it comes to First Peoples’ communities, cultures and lands, the experts are First Peoples.

The past can’t be changed, but we can choose to take steps today that will help heal the ongoing pain caused by the injustices of yesterday. We believe a better tomorrow is possible and the ASRC pledges our unwavering support to the First Peoples’ Treaty process in Victoria. 

To help build support for the shared journey to Treaty, we will collaborate, educate, advocate and activate.

By making this pledge, we affirm our commitment to the self-determination of First Peoples in Victoria as they assert their rights, tell their truths, and chart a path towards, and healing through, Treaty-making.

Together, we will create a future where First Peoples’ voices are heard, rights are respected, and justice is realised for generations to come.