The standalone department will add transparency, accountability and deliver measurable progress as we work to achieve the Closing the Gap targets.
The department will work alongside Indigenous Victorians to implement a community-led, co-ordinated and transparent approach to policy, funding and service delivery.
One minister will be ultimately responsible for First Nations Victoria, providing true accountability to ensure funding and services reach the people who need it.
Under the Allan Labor Government, the services Indigenous Victorians rely upon are fragmented across multiple departments, leading to duplication, blurred responsibilities and inconsistent service delivery.
First Nations Victoria is at the core of a community-led strategy improve the lives of Indigenous Victorians. It is designed to deliver measurable progress on Closing the Gap targets - backed up by total accountability.
First Nations Victoria will publish quarterly updates and an annual report to parliament, ensuring transparency and accountability in delivering outcomes across health, education, justice, housing, and child and family wellbeing.
The Liberals and Nationals have also pledged in the first 100 days of government to introduce legislation repealing Treaty.
We do not believe Treaty is the best way to close the gap and deliver better outcomes for Indigenous communities.
Leader of the Opposition, Brad Battin, said Labor had failed on Closing the Gap and an inclusive and transparent First Nations Victoria will help turn it around.
"We're focused on delivering real change in the lives of Indigenous Victorians - not just through policy, but through genuine collaboration and respect for community-led leadership," Mr Battin said.
"First Nations Victoria will work in genuine partnership with aboriginal community-controlled organisations, traditional owners, elders and local communities to co-design and deliver services that reflect their priorities.
"Our commitment is to work alongside aboriginal organisations, elders and communities to ensure that every initiative is grounded in cultural safety, trust and local knowledge."
Shadow Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Melina Bath, said Labor was "off-track" on Closing the Gap and change was required.
"Victoria is either stagnating or falling behind on key Closing the Gap indicators, including suicide rates, out-of-home care and youth engagement," Ms Bath said.
"This policy is about turning that around. We have listened to Indigenous communities who want practical solutions."
