Traditional Owners

Traditional Owner Formal Recognition Victoria

In Victoria, there are three different processes for groups to become formally recognised as Traditional Owners of Country.

The Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk People of the Wotjobaluk Nations Recognition and Settlement Agreement

On 25 October 2022, the Victorian Government and the Barengi Gadjin Land Council signed agreements under the Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010 (Vic) and related legislation.

Eastern Maar achieve native title recognition

On 28 March 2023, at Logan’s Beach in Warrnambool, the Eastern Maar community celebrated the recognition of their native title rights.

Story: Negotiating a boundary agreement and shared joint management

Gunaikurnai and Taungurung Traditional Owner groups requested support from the Right People for Country program to negotiate a boundary agreement over Country in eastern Victoria.

The Victorian Government offers support for Traditional Owners to:

negotiate Traditional Owner agreements between and within groups
manage current agreements between Traditional Owners and the Victorian Government
manage parks in a culturally sensitive and ecologically sympathetic way

Find out more or get support:

Right People for Country program

The Right People for Country program supports Traditional Owner groups to make agreements.

Become a Registered Aboriginal Party in Victoria

How to apply to become a Registered Aboriginal Party.

Native Title Unit

The Native Title Unit is responsible for the administration and implementation of the state’s responsibilities under the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth).

Managing country together

Providing practical and symbolic recognition of Traditional Owner rights in partnership with Traditional Owners.

Agreements with Traditional Owners

Victoria currently has agreements with 5 Traditional Owner groups.

Reviewed 21 July 2023