Ngarra Murray, one of two co-chairs of the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria, has announced she will not run for reelection later this year.
The Wamba Wamba, Yorta Yorta, Dhudhuroa and Dja Dja Wurrung woman made the announcement in an open community letter posted to the Assembly's website.
Murray, who has four months left in her current term, said when she began her her work with the inaugural Assembly, her vision for the state's Indigenous peoples seemed "impossible".
"Today, that vision stands as a reality with the first Treaty in Australia signed," she wrote.
"We can take pride in this nation-leading work to date ... After serving on the inaugural and the second Assembly, I will not recontest the 2026 Treaty Elections."
Ms Murray, who served alongside co-chair Rueben Berg, was first elected in 2019. That was followed by her reelection in 2023.
In that time, the Assembly has overseen significant changes in the state's relationship with the First Peoples.
Testimony from hundreds of brave witnesses gave voice to the experiences of Aboriginal people, historic and continuing.
As part of the treaty agreement, the state of Victoria officially apologised to its First Peoples in December last year.
"Treaty has shifted the ground and reflects a State mature enough to confront its history, courageous enough to take action to reshape its future, and committed to walking a new path grounded in respect, strong relationships, Treaties, truth-telling and self-determination for First Peoples," Ms Murray wrote.
"Serving as Co-chair of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria has been one of the greatest honours of my life."
Votes for the 2026 candidates can be cast online, in person and by mail from March 21 to April 12.
