Assyrian Australia Explained. Understanding treaty in Australia: What First Nations people want you to know

Australia is home to the world’s oldest living cultures, yet remains one of the few countries without a national treaty recognising its First Peoples. This means there has never been a broad agreement about sharing the land, resources, or decision-making power - a gap many see as unfinished business. Find out what treaty really means — how it differs from land rights and native title, and why it matters.

First Peoples Assembly of Victoria pose for a group portrait, the indigenous body of Victoria negotiating the statewide treaty gather in Legislative Council Chamber of Victoria for their first sitting after elections on July 26, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. Credit: Tamati Smith/Getty Images

Key Points

• A treaty is a formal agreement between governments and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
• Many First Nations people see treaty as a step toward justice, respect, and better relationships in the future.
• A national treaty would create a single, country-wide agreement for recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights across Australia.

• What is the difference between Aboriginal land rights, native title and treaty?
• What does a treaty mean in Australia?
• Why does a treaty matter?
• What might a treaty include?
• What’s next for treaty in Australia?

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