WHAT IS THE TREATY?
* An agreement between states, nations or governments, including between indigenous people and governments.
* Can be used in many areas including recognition of historic sovereignty, sacred sites, place names, historic wrongs, apologies and how relationships should evolve, possible self-government and land rights and management.
TREATY IN AUSTRALIA
* The June 1988 Barunga Statement called for Aboriginal self-management, a national system of land rights, compensation for loss of lands, respect for Aboriginal identity, an end to discrimination and the granting of full civil, economic, social and cultural rights.
* Labor prime minister Bob Hawke wanted to conclude a treaty by 1990. It has not happened.
* A national Native Title Act 1993 and several state-based agreements cover some of the same ground as a treaty.
WHICH OTHER COUNTRIES HAVE A TREATY?
* New Zealand - British representatives signed the Treaty of Waitangi with Maori chiefs in 1840. The New Zealand government has committed to settling historic and contemporary claims about the breach of treaty principles.
* Canada - treaties were signed up to 1920. Since the 1970s, federal and provincial governments have been making land agreements with First Nations without historic treaties.
* United States - agreements were signed until 1871. The federal government continues to make "nation-to-nation" agreements with recognised tribes.
WHERE IS AUSTRALIA UP TO WITH THE TREATY?
* Australia's first treaty legislation is being considered by Victoria's parliament after consultation with 7000 Aboriginal Victorians over two years. The Advancing the Treaty Process with Aboriginal Victorians Bill 2018 will set up a representative body that will help design the treaty negotiation framework. If the legislation is successful, the body will be elected by Aboriginal Victorians by mid-2019.
* Other Australian states and territories are also considering tabling treaty legislation.
Source: Victorian government
