This resource examines what Treaty is, the history of Treaties with First Nations here and elsewhere, and where we are now. 

Key Points

• The Uluru Statement from the Heart is the most recent call for self-determination from Australia’s First Nations Peoples. The Turnbull Government after ‘careful consideration’ rejected the proposals set forth by the Uluru Statement and those endorsed by the Final Report of the Referendum Council.
• The NT Government has committed to commencing treaty discussions with First Nations in the Territory through the Barunga Agreement (2018).
• The South West Native Title Settlement (the Settlement) in Western Australia is the largest native title settlement in Australian history and is considered by many as 'Australia's First Treaty'
• In South Australia, The Buthera Agreement is the first significant step towards a state-based treaty. This agreement was the culmination of a year-long consultation process with Aboriginal South Australians followed by discussions between the government and three Aboriginal nations on treaty.