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On 26 January, we acknowledge the experiences of First Nations peoples

The 26 January marks a defining moment for Australia as a nation. But in recent years, there’s been a growing acknowledgement that for Australia’s First Nations peoples, the date is layered with pain and sadness. It marks the beginning of a period in which their communities experienced the loss of many lives and the erosion of culture and traditions.

24 January 2020

On 26 January, we recognise this trauma and acknowledge the central role of First Nations peoples in Australia’s culture, history and future. Their resilience and the strength of their culture and identity has been vital to the progress we’ve seen on many human rights issues, including criminal justice reform and land rights.

As an organisation, we show our respect for First Nations peoples on 26 January and reiterate our commitment to protecting their rights. Through our work on the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities, we’ll continue to promote the importance of Aboriginal cultural rights and their protection under law. We’ll continue to support the important conversations underway about Treaty and advocate for continued progress towards self-determination.

How we can help

If you have been discriminated against, harassed or vilified because of your race or religion, you can make a complaint to the Commission.

Our free, fair and timely dispute resolution service can help you to resolve your complaint – phone us on 1300 292 153, email enquiries@veohrc.vic.gov.au or make a complaint online. The Commission also accepts complaints from third-party representatives.

Media contact

Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission
Phone: 1300 292 153
Email: enquiries@veohrc.vic.gov.au
Post: PO Box 18011, Melbourne VIC 3000

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Address
Melbourne Victoria 3000

General enquiries
enquiries@veohrc.vic.gov.au

Enquiry line
1300 292 153 or (03) 9032 3583

Interpreters
1300 152 494

NRS Voice Relay
1300 555 727 then use 1300 292 153

Media enquiries
1300 292 153

The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission acknowledges that we work on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We also work remotely and serve communities on the lands of other Traditional Custodians.

We pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission recognises the injustice resulting from the colonial invasion and occupation of First Peoples’ territories and the Yoorrook Justice Commission’s findings of genocide, crimes against humanity and denial of freedoms.