This report is intended to keep government accountable for improving outcomes for and with Aboriginal Victorians, as well as ongoing work to progress Aboriginal self-determination.

This report also provides community and government with valuable information that allows us to monitor outcomes across all areas of life, as well as the challenges that still needs to be addressed.

Key Findings/Recommendations:

• Victorian Aboriginal people said that connection to family, community, culture and Country is critical to their well-being and positive self-identity. Policy research and evaluation clearly demonstrates that making culture a priority in policy, programs and service delivery will lead to better outcomes for Aboriginal people.
• Victorian Government departments and agencies are prioritising Aboriginal culture by providing dedicated Aboriginal recruitment and career progression pathways for current and future Aboriginal staff in the Victorian Public Service, as well as opportunities for non-Aboriginal staff to build their awareness and knowledge.
• Successive Victorian Governments have played a significant part in past regimes of colonial dispossession, assimilation and erasure. Addressing trauma and supporting healing requires not only acknowledging past wrongs, but initiating restorative processes to address the ongoing impacts of intergenerational trauma experienced by Aboriginal people. It also requires the embedding of trauma-informed people, practices and policy across all portfolio areas.
• Government must respond to Aboriginal community needs, voices and calls for leadership by transferring decision-making power to Aboriginal communities. Government must also resource local Aboriginal organisations to lead the design, development and delivery of policies and services. Moving toward treaty represents a crucial part of this work.