The Andrews Labor Government has delayed a crucial step in Victoria’s path to Treaty by failing to provide documents to the Yoorrook Justice Commission.
This week the Commission condemned the State Government for delaying future hearings and jeopardising the release of reports on the Commission’s findings.
Shadow Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Peter Walsh, said the Victorian Government must urgently answer the questions of the Justice Commission.
“This shows a complete disregard for the truth-telling process and, in turn, a total lack of respect to Indigenous communities in Victoria,” Mr Walsh said.
“By delaying these documents, the Government is obstructing the Commission from performing its inquiries and delivering its reports by the deadline set by the State Government.
“This is to the detriment of Indigenous Victorians, who are sharing their stories and expect the state to actively engage in the truth-telling process, rather than asking for extension after extension and delaying key information.”
Mr Walsh said it was vital the Andrews Labor Government prioritises this work to ensure better outcomes for Indigenous Victorians.
“Indigenous Victorians deserve more than apologies from a lawyer representing the State Government,” Mr Walsh said.
“Of the reports that were presented, the State Government provided no direct answers to 71 questions from the Commission.
“Labor must devote the resources to deliver these reports on the criminal and child protection systems, and not sugar-coat the truth.”