Referendum 23 Tapes: Recent Episodes
Victorian Aboriginal News
Dedicated to providing you with information about the Australian 2023 Referendum on a First Nations Voice to Parliament enshrined in the constitution.
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Sixteen-year-old Lola Wood-Sharples speaks out on VAN Talks, calling for real accountability on Closing the Gap targets and demanding meaningful action over empty government promises.
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We sit down with First Nations radio pioneer Uncle Joel Wright, discussing the past, present and future of Blak voices on Australian radio.
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An acclaimed Victorian Aboriginal artist, Bayley Mifsud, discusses navigating major corporate collaborations while safeguarding cultural integrity. She highlights the vital importance of connection to Country, honouring Southeastern artistic identity, and inspiring the next generation to proudly celebrate First Nations cultural heritage everywhere.
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First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria members Tarni Morris and Levi Power discuss how First Nations youth are stepping up to lead Victoria’s historic Treaty,
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Uncle Ian Hamm joins VAN Talks to argue that true self-determination requires shifting from rights-based social policies to macro-economic participation and wealth independence.
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Recently, having given a magnificent oration on SBS’s NITV, Uncle Richard Frankland goes even deeper into his five challenges for institutions, governments, and ourselves, as well as social engineering and the need to be free thinkers.
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As VACCHO marks 30 years, CEO Aunty Jill Gallagher reflects on the early struggles, the power of community-led healthcare, and the non-negotiable right to self-determination.
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Principal lawyer and founder of AMK Law, Matthew Karakoulakis, unpacks critical new updates to Australia’s Indigenous Procurement Policy (IPP). He looks past the percentages on paper to explore why true First Nations economic self-determination relies on 'effective control' and accountability.
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This is an episode not to be missed. Yorta Yorta man and award-winning journalist, Daniel James, gives a one-on-one interview with VAN Talks to discuss the critical role of First Nations media. Discussing current threats to community and culture, and pleading for people to just be nicer to one another.
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12 months after first speaking with Shelley Ware, one of Australia’s foremost First Nations education system reform advocates, we catch up again to talk about the future of Victoria’s education system in a post-Yoorrook era.
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In an interview with Victorian Aboriginal News’ Charles Pakana, Settlers Council of Australia CEO Maria Dimopoulos reflects on her first 12 months in the role. She addresses a profound, 25-year oversight: the total absence of dialogue regarding what "settlement" truly means in the context of First Nations dispossession.
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In this episode of VAN Talks, Rueben Berg is interviewed by our founder and host, Uncle Charles Pakana, for reflections on his time at the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria, and, now that he is no longer a co-Chair at the Assembly, how he spends his time (did someone say "disk golf"?). Rueben also gives some thoughts and tips to local councils regarding their involvement with Traditional Owner groups.
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In this special episode on VAN Talks, a podcast normally hosted by Uncle Charles Pakana, Karina Wells, Uncle Charles's daughter, takes to the mic to interview the face of VAN. Uncle Charles talks about the impact his mentors and the move to Naarm had on him, as well as what the future of VAN might look like.
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VAN's Charles Pakana sits down the Taungurung woman Kaley Nicholson, CEO of the Federation of Victorian Traditional Owners Corporation, to discuss Native Title in the Victorian context
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NITV General Manager, Dan Bourchier, discusses his vision for the future of NITV and advises both journalists and consumers of media on how to maintain a truth-focused perspective.
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Meriki Onus and Djaran Murray-Jackson have recently been elected as Co-Chairs of Gellung Warl, the First People's Assembly of Victoria. In this episode of VAN Talks, Meriki and Djaran yarn about the future of Treaty in Victoria, showing that they've been listening to community and are ready to "hit the ground running" to " bring about tangible and immediate change".
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In this episode of VAN Talks, Sheree Lowe explains the difference between a kinship carer and a traditional foster carer in the Western system. She also gives some great examples of how to embed Indigenous culture in children's lives.
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In this episode, Uncle Charles yarns with former Victorian Multicultural Commissioner, Shankar Karsynathan.
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Uncle Andrew Gardiner and Dale Wandin from Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung speak to VAN about the Traditional Owner group's entry onto the Treaty Authority's register.
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We catch up with historian Peter Bakker and explore the truth of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in military service. Listen in to this discussion on how the Australian military provided a rare space of racal equality where mateship often superseded discrimination.
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Charles Pakana yarns with Taungurang CEO, Matt Burns, to discuss the historic steps being taken by the Taungurung people toward Treaty negotiations with the state government. Matt talks about the community’s journey toward independence through the Victorian Treaty pathway.
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Charles Pakana has a yarn with Travis Lovett, a Kerrupmara Gunditjmara man and former Yoorrook Justice Commissioner, 18 hours before he leaves to leads the 2026 National Walk for Truth. This 800km journey from Naarm to Canberra advocates for a national truth-telling process and collective healing.
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In this episode VAN's Charles Pakana sits with Professor Peter Radoll, the man responsible for ensuring that all the evidence and submissions received by the Yoorrook Justice Commission is protected and - importantly - is made available to all Australians.
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With the passage of the Treaty Act of 2025, many believe the work is finished—but for Victoria’s Traditional Owners, the journey is just beginning. In this episode, host Charles Pakana sits down with Kaley Nicholson, CEO of the Federation of Victorian Traditional Owner Corporations. They dive into the complexities of local treaties, the burden caused by a $76 million funding gap, and how a strategic investment in Traditional Owner Corporations could return $1 billion in benefits to the broader Victorian community.
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Djaara and the City of Greater Bendigo move beyond transactional MOUs with Yilingga Marna, a groundbreaking agreement embedding self-determination and shared governance into local decision-making. VAN's Charles Pakana talks with DJAARA CEO Cassandra Lewis and Bendigo CEO Andrew Cooney.
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James Woods from the Australian Long Weekend Initiative proposes moving Australia Day to the second-last Monday in January. This shift promises a long weekend every year, boosts business productivity, and fosters national unity for all Australians. He speaks with VAN's Charles Pakana.
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There's no doubt that a strong Australian First Nations business sector results in a strengthening of the Australian economy. To discuss this, VAN catches up with Dilin Duwa ("Everlasting Flow" [Woi-wurrung]) Centre for Indigenous Business Leadership Executive Director, Paul Paton.
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With new survey figures demonstrating a clear shift towards support for Treaty, Truth and reconciliation across Victoria, VAN catches up with the survey's commissioning academics, Professor Andrew Gunstone and Professor Emma-Jay Gavin, Australia's first Aboriginal professor for truth-telling.
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With the recent publication of his book Defending the Defenceless, Eddie Cubillo joins VAN's Charles Pakana to discuss the critical importance - and all too often, lack - of self-determination and true community control in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander legal service space across the country.
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With legislation before Parliament to cement the powers of the Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people, we catch up with country's first Commissioner under that legislation, Sue-Anne Hunter
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Arguably one of the most important Assembly elections, the 2026 election for "Assembly 3.0" kicks off on the 21st of March. We catch up with the people responsible for running and overseeing the process
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With Fire Rescue Victoria recognising the need for a more culturally appropriate workspace and overall operational environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander firefighters, VAN's Charles Pakana meets up with two active FRV First Nations firefighters.
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One of the fundamental cornerstones of First Nations self-determination is economic independence; and the Kinaway Chamber of Commerce in Victoria is fundamental to that. VAN's Charles Pakana catches up with Kinaway Chair, Palawa/Tommeginne man, Trent Brickle.
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With the music industry becoming increasingly competitive and difficult for young artists, VAN's Charles Pakana catches up with the General Manager of Songlines, a Blak-led organisation focused entirely on supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander performers in Victoria.
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As we continue to explore the importance of Blak media in Australia, VAN's Charles Pakana catches up for a yarn with the editor of Koori Mail, Todd Condie.
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With the announcement made for the next elections to be held for the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria - 3.0 - we're looking at significant moves forward in the Victorian Treaty landscape. For a closer view, VAN's Charles Pakana, chats with Assembly co-Chair Ngarra Murray
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As ex-Yoorrook Commissioner Travis Lovett works on his next Walk for Truth - this time at a national level - he joins VAN's Charles Pakana to discuss the need for this, as well as how ordinary Australians can join in and support this initiative
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Just three days before her resignation from Cabinet comes into effect, the Minister for Treaty and First Nations, Natalie Hutchins MP, speaks with VAN's Charles Pakana about her experiences holding that portfolio during what can arguably be described as Australia's most positive decade in the First Nations space.
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Increasingly - and fortunately - a new age of "digital" story-telling professionals are emerging to ensure stories are protected from the ravages of time. VAN catches up with one such story-teller, Yorta Yorta and Woi-wurrung man Mark Thomson.
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As the need and demand for critical minerals increases, we catch up with the CEO of the Federation of Victorian Traditional Owners Cooperation, Kaley Nicholson, about the state government dragging its heels on reaching agreements with Traditional Owners across the state.
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In an apparent age of misinformation and disinformation, particularly evident during the 2023 Referendum on a First Nations Voice to Parliament, VAN's Charles Pakana catches up with NITV's John Paul (JP) Janke, to discuss the realities and implications of this moving forward, with a focus also on its potential impact of the Victorian Treaty Process.
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Regarded by many as a fairly "redneck" area, Shepparton is home to one of the longest-serving and effective local reconciliation efforts - the Shepparton Region Reconciliation Group. VAN's Charles Pakana travels to the area and meets up for a yarn with one of the group's co-conveners, Dierdre Robertson.
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Treaty Authority member, Biripi woman Duean White talks with Victorian Aboriginal News about local Treaties, and what local governments and organisations can do to better understand and prepare for them
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Featuring three great tracks from the band's latest album, Solar Eclipse, this interview has VAN's Charles Pakana yarning with Blackfire co-founder, rhythm guitarist, songwriter and vocalist Grant Hanson about the album and the history of this iconic Naarm-based Aboriginal rock band.
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We catch up with Austrade's first Head of Indigenous Engagement and Export, Yuin woman Melanie Harris, to discuss First Nations businesses making headway in international trade
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From being taken from her home and family in 1969 by Victoria Police, Stolen Generations survivor Aunty Evajo Edwards now works as an Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer with that same organisation...and shares positive perspectives.
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We conclude our extended interview with Gunditjmara man and co-Chair of the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria, Rueben Berg, deep-diving into Treaty legislation and the Treaty itself.
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We continue out deep-dive into the Victorian Treaty Legislation and proposed Treaty with Gunditjmara man and co-Chair of the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria, Rueben Berg.
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We're rapt that Victorian Aboriginal News was chosen by the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria to interview co-Chair Rueben Berg for a deep dive into the Victorian Treaty Legislation and proposed Treaty. This is part one of a three-part extended exclusive interview, recorded just days before the legislation was passed in the Victorian Parliament's lower house.
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Gunditjmara woman and co-founder of Clothing the Gaps, Laura Thompson, joins VAN's Charles Pakana to talk about the importance of clothing as a means of sparking change and conversation.
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Somewhat off our normal track, in this episode I speak with Tahlia Azaria from the Foundation for Young Australians about that organisation's Young Mayors program.
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Ex-Victorian Treaty Advancement Commissioner, Aunty Jill Gallagher, looks back at the challenges facing the Treaty process during the formation of the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria.
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Led by Gunditjmara woman Aunty Lisa Briggs, NgaweeyanMaar-oo (voice of and from the people) is working with local governments to help them achieve their Closing the Gaps obligations
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In this episode of VAN Talks, I catch up with the leader and founder of Victoria's only Blak- and queer-led first aid service provider, Nic Radoll. He leads an Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisation (ACCO) that's another clear demonstration of the value to ALL community of self-determination.
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With the Victorian Treaty legislation now tabled in the State's Parliament, grassroots level support is on the rise. A key player in this is First Nations-led Common Threads. We speak with one of the organisation's founders, Larissa Baldwin-Roberts.
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Despite being underfunded by the Federal Government, First Nations media across Australia plays a critical role in dispelling myths and misinformation. We speak with First Nations Media Australia CEO, Wally Tallis.
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Less than two hours after Australia's first Treaty legislation was tabled in Victorian Parliament, First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria co-Chair, Gunditjmara man Rueben Berg, met up with VAN's Charles Pakana to record the first of an extended series of interviews discussing the legislation and future of the Assembly.
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A partnership led by the Municipal Association of Victoria, and including Victorian Aboriginal News, First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria, Treaty Authority and Reconciliation Victoria, sees Victorian Local Government Authorities start educating themselves - and their communities - about the Local Treaty process. VAN's Charles Pakana catches up with MAV Director of Community and Sector Services Kath Brackett.
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Every day the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation receives engagement requests from government, corporations, community groups and individuals; and with 29 Local Government Authorities (Councils) operating on its Country, the load on the corporation is enormous. We catch up with CEO Kupa Teao to gain an understanding of the organisation and how engagement can be achieved respectfully and effectively.
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For nearly 30 years, RMIT's Ngarara Willum Centre has been providing critical student support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. We speak with Indigenous Access and Engagement Senior Advisor, Bundjalung woman Talia Elliott about the enormous benefits such centres have in closing the educational gap.
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North of Naarm (Melbourne), the Taungurung Land and Waters Council (TL&WC) and the Local Government Authorities on its Country, have banded together to establish a forum - one that seeks to identify and achieve common goals for the good of all community members. In this episode VAN's Charles Pakana speaks with CEO of TL&WC, Matt Burns, and forum co-chair, the Mayor of Bendigo, Councillor Andrea Metcalf
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Treaty Authority chair, Djab Wurrung man Jidah Clark, talks frankly about the current state of the Victorian statewide Treaty, and the Authority's commitment to work with ALL parties, especially Local Government Authorities, in regard to local Treaties.
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Taking on the role of interim CEO of the Federation of Victorian Traditional Owner Corporations, Kaley Nicholson - one-and-a-half weeks into the job - already has firm ideas on how the Federation can further promote and advocate for the voices of Traditional Owners across Victoria.
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As the Victorian Government considers introducing even further backward steps in the State's already archaic bail laws, VAN's Charles Pakana catches up with the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service Director of Legal Services, Ali Besiroglu to discuss the current situation and Poccum's Law.
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As we continue to explore the many facets of the Victorian Treaty process, VAN’s Charles Pakana speaks with Treaty Authority member and Yorta Yorta woman Dr Petah Atkinson and Worimi man Dr Jacob Prahn about the critical importance and role of data sovereignty and governance.
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During a semi-regular one-on-one catch-up with Assembly co-Chair Rueben Berg, we learn more about the next iteration of the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria, and the belief that there could well be a signed and enacted statewide Treaty in place before the end of 2025
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At 4am on the 28th of May 2025, an embargo was lifted on a media release that stated DJAARA - the representative body for Dja Dja Wurrung clans - was ready to enter into Treaty negotiations with the Victorian Government. That afternoon, we sat down with DJAARA's reserved seat holder at the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria, Dja Dja Wurrung man Djaran Murray-Jackson.
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I was fortunate enough to catch up and yarn with Yoorrook Commission Travis Lovett on the Portland foreshores - on Gunditjmara Country - 18 hours before the commencement of the Walk for Truth.
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One of Australia's foremost authorities on - and advocates for - Aboriginal cultures and histories in the education system, Shelley Ware, talks with Charles about the need for change and how that change can be achieved.
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Forty years on from the foundation of the Koorie Heritage Trust, VAN’s Charles Pakana meets up with CEO Tom Mosby to discuss the Trust’s role and relevance
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For nearly 15 years, IndigenousX has been “stirring the pot” as a niche and fearless Blak media outlet. In this episode I catch up with it’s CEO and founder, Luke Pearson.
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In this episode I catch up with Professor Dennis Foley, a descendent of the Gai-mariagal people, and Australia’s first professor of indigenous entrepreneurship. He speaks openly about the important cultural context of this subject as well as calling out key changes that need to be implemented in order for Blak businesses to be given better chances for success.
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Following years of advocacy from historians and community, the Australian War Memorial is embarking on a project that will see “Defence of Country” realised in the form of a Frontier War exhibition within the next few years. I visit the War Memorial and catch up for an interview with the Indigenous Liaison Officer, Michael Bell.
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We speak with Bangerang cultural educator and custodian Roland Atkinson about a new dictionary that will breathe new life into the Bangerang language and further strengthen culture
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With the failure of the 2023 Voice referendum, the onus is well and truly on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Members of Parliament and Senators to help First Nations voices be heard and heeded. In this episode, we speak with Yamatji and Noongar woman, Greens Senator for Western Australia, Dorinda Cox.
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With the final Yoorrook Commission report due in June 2025, Commissioner Travis Lovett is about to undertake a 370 kilometre walk from Portland in the Victorian south-west - where European colonisation started - to Parliament House in Melbourne. He speaks with VAN’s Charles Pakana about his aspirations for the walk and extends an invitation for all Victorians to join him.
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There’s always a great deal of attention given to the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria and, more recently, the Treaty Authority when it comes to the Victorian Treaty process. In the background, though, and playing an incredibly important part in ensuring that Traditional Owners are able to negotiate on an equal footing with the government, is the Self-Determination Fund.
In this episode, VAN’s Charles Pakana sits down with the Fund’s CEO, Gunditjmara man Dr Rohan Henry.
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VAN’s Charles Pakana speaks with Wurundjeri Elder and lore man Uncle Bill Nicholson, gaining an insight into the important role that a Welcome to Country has in the broader Australian social landscape.
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With the Victorian State Government and First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria having agreed to an agenda of items for the first round of Treaty negotiations, VAN’s Charles Pakana catches up with Assembly co-chair Rueben Berg. They take a closer look at one of the main areas of the negotiations - what a future Aboriginal representative body might look like.
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In this end-of-year episode, VAN's Charles Pakana brings together key points from two months of investigation and interviews focused on the Victorian Government's questionably-motivated decision to extend an Order in Council on the unprotection of dingoes across North-East and Eastern Victoria. He also discusses important updates on legal action being taken against the Government on this matter.
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As we commence our closing off of the Victorian Government’s “dingo death warrant” across much of Australia, VAN’s Charles Pakana catches up with President of the Victorian Farmers Federation, Emma Germano. Even that organisation claims the government’s consultation on the matter was nothing short of “sham consultation”.
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As submissions and evidence-giving closes for Victoria’s groundbreaking Yoorrook Royal Commission into truth-telling, VAN’s Charles Pakana catches up with Commissioner and Deputy Chair Sue-Anne Hunter. Together, they look back at the process that is set to bring about major systemic change across the State.
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As we continue our investigation into the State Government’s blatant disregard of First Nations’ advice on the matter of dingo protection in Victoria, VAN’s Charles Pakana speaks with the CEO of DJAARA, the Dja Dja Wurrung clans, Uncle Rodney Carter. This conversation adds further weight to what appears to be a politically - or otherwise? - motivated decision by Ministers Ros Spence and Steve Dimopoulos.
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On a recent trip up to Latje Latje Country, specifically Mildura, VAN's Charles Pakana caught up with Barkindji Elder, Uncle Col Clark. Sitting by the southern bank of the mighty Murray River, they yarned about reconciliation in a post-referendum Victoria.
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In this episode of the VAN Talks podcast, VAN’s Charles Pakana talks with CEO of the Federation of Victorian Traditional Owner Corporations, Paul Paton. They discuss the clear lack of consultation from the Victorian Government with Traditional Owners on the matter of baiting and trapping the culturally important and significant dingo.
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Nearly six years ago, I traveled across Victoria shadowing Aunty Jill Gallagher, then the Victorian Treaty Advancement Commissioner, and catching up with numerous traditional owners who had stepped forward as candidates for election to the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria. During that time, just about five and a half years ago, I met up with one of those candidates at his home in one of Melbourne's outer suburbs. Today, almost on the eve of the commencement of a negotiation between state government and Victoria and Aboriginal people, I'm once again sitting in the home of that same man who is now one of the two co-chairs of the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria, Gunditjmara man, Reuben Berg.
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In this episode VAN's Charles Pakana sits down for a yarn with Aboriginal reform advocate and activist, Bunurong woman Zoe Upton. Together they discuss topics ranging from engaging with Aboriginal Education Consultative Groups, increasing the number of First Nations teachers in the system, supporting identity and the role of allies and collaborators. A must-listen episode for anyone wanting to bring about change in the education system.
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As we continue our deep dive into the Victorian Government's decision to extend the unprotection order on dingoes up until 2028, VAN's Charles Pakana travels to Apollo Bay to speak to Yuin man and academic, Dr Jack Pascoe. In this interview, the two discuss the implications of Victoria's key piece of archaic wildlife legislation that is nearing its 50th anniversary.
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As we continue pursuing the facts behind the Victorian Government's strange decision to extend an Order in Council, taking unprotection of dingoes across much of the state through to 2028, VAN's Charles Pakana sits with with Professor Euan Ritchie, one of Australia's foremost environmental scientists. Together they discuss the science behind the need for the dingo, and practical ways in which livestock can be protected without the need for poisons and leg-traps.
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In this episode VAN’s Charles Pakana sits down with Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung cultural educator Thane Garvey to discuss ways in which Aboriginal culture - language, caring for country, etc. - can be brought into our day-to-day lives.
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While a growing number of people and businesses seek to support Blak businesses, there is an unfortunate prevalence of businesses following a practice of "black cladding" to rip off the unaware
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Ever the optimist and activist, exactly one year on from the failed referendum to achieve a First Nations Voice in our Constitution, Thomas Mayo speaks about his book Always Was Always Will Be and his ongoing encouragement for all Australians to work together for a better and more just country
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In a move many describe as primarily politically motivated, the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) has extended a dingo UNprotection order across areas of Victoria through to 2028. Traditional Owner groups, environmentalists and animal welfare groups are seeking to have the government rescind the order. Today, Charles Pakana speaks with Taungurung Director of Cultural Land Management about the government’s decision.
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Sitting at Tae Rak on Gunditjmara Country in the state's South-West, VAN's Charles Pakana catches up with the Budj Bim General Manager Joseph Saunders, discussing the story behind the place.
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In a bit of a change, it's Charles' turn to be interviewed about Treaty as he is joined by Reconciliation Victoria's Communications lead, Anna Van Vliet. They explore various questions that have come in to Rec Vic from members of its 30+ local reconciliation group network and shed truth where so much misinformation is rife.
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A simple interview with Constitutional law expert Professor Cheryl Saunders about the legal meaning of "treaty" evolves to embrace a broad range of important related matters.
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OK, so it may seem a bit of a dry subject - philanthropy - but when you start to explore how, through its decolonisation, it can deliver major benefits to the broader community, the lightbulbs start to flicker on in our minds. We speak about this with the CEO of Woor Dungin, Yuin man, Shaun Middlebrook
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Once again Sky News commentator Peta Credlin and the Federal Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Jacinta Price, have been proven wrong in commentary. This time, it's all about Victorian Treaty and a specific community education event.
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Throughout 2023 and 2024, two research leads at the National Centre for Reconciliation, Truth and Justice undertook an innovative project to build reconciliation capabilities, strengths and leadership with the Victorian multicultural communities. In this episode I speak with both of them, Greek-born Maria and Sri Lankan-born Shankar, about this amazing project and the work yet to be done.
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In this incredibly candid interview, VAN’s Charles Pakana talks with local Ballarat elder, Noongar man Uncle Al Harris, to discuss the state of reconciliation within the Victorian regional city of Ballarat. One of the major calls is for a local truth-telling initiative.
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On the 17th of September this year, the opportunity closes for the lodgement of either a comment or dispute regarding the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria meeting minimum standards to negotiate a statewide treaty. To gain a greater understanding of the process and implications, we speak with Treaty Authority member, Yorta Yorta man Uncle Andrew Jackomos.
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During a recent visit to Coranderrk, VAN’s Charles Pakana caught up for a yarn about the Woi-wurrung language with advocate, speaker and teacher Brooke Wandin. Without any doubt, the Woi-wurrung language, like other First Nations languages across Australia is having new life breathed into it.
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Discussing everything from the referendum and cultural responsibilities right through to conservative media and "what's next", we engage in an in-depth interview with Bruce Pascoe.
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Taking a position of leadership, the Mayor of Merri-Bek (formerly Moreland) talks openly about his and the city’s aspirations to enter into Treaty negotiations with the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung, the Traditional Owners of the country.
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We hear all the time from the Commissioners of the Yoorrook Justice Commission, but what about those few people who are working every day with community to receive the truth about system injustices - past and current - heaped on Aboriginal people? We speak with two of the Yoorrook Truth Receivers to discuss their challenges and the goals they wish to see achieved.
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In a far-reaching interview with Victorian Aboriginal News, co-Chair of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, Rueben Berg, responds to questions covering nuances of the Treaty Negotiation Framework, treaty readiness and the future of truth-telling in Victoria beyond the Yoorrook Justice Commission.
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All Australia bore witness to the obscene tagline of “If you don’t know, vote NO” that was used by anti-Voice campaigners in 2023. Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Elder and lore man Uncle Bill Nicholson is a committed educator, and speaks on VAN Talks about the need to improve the education system for the benefit of ALL.
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If you listen to just one of our podcast episodes this year...this is the one. CEO of the Aborigines' Advancement League, member of the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria, academic and activist Aunty Esme Bamblett talks bluntly about EVERY Australian's role in achieving reconciliation in this country.
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VAN host Charles Pakana catches up with singer/songwriter Pirritu, also known as Brett Lee, to discuss the musician’s background story and the role he plays in bringing about social change.
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On the 30th of June 2024, Anglican priest Uncle Glenn Loughrey, a Wiradjuri man who campaigned strongly for the Voice to Parliament, was collated at St Paul's Cathedral in Melbourne as Provincial Archdeacon for Reconciliation, First Peoples Recognition and Treaty. We caught up with him just a few days after his collation to discuss his plans moving forward.
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In a highly thought-provoking interview, we speak with founder and creative director of Torch program, Uncle Kent Morris, and Stacey Edwards, an inspirational woman who, with dedication and commitment, clearly demonstrates how Aboriginal-designed solutions deliver positive results.
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Uncle Andrew Jackomos and Thelma Austin from the Treaty Authority speak about the importance of ensuring treaty negotiations are impartial and of benefit to all
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While Fire Rescue Victoria embarks upon a recruiting campaign with an eye towards bringing in more First Nations recruit firefighters, we speak with Uncle Owen Butler, a Wiradjuri man with 44 years experience in the service.
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Charles speaks with the CEO of the Taungurung Land and Waters Council, Matthew Burns, about the recent ruling from VCAT (Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal), which overturned a works licence issued by Goulburn Murray Water that would see a 600 metre diversion of the Rubicon River.
For this episode, Charles travels to Bendigo and meets up with Nicola Perry, Chair of the Bendigo and District Aboriginal Corporation (BDAC), and BDAC CEO, Dallas Widdocombe.
In this episode Charles speaks with the lead researcher and managing director of the First 1,000 Days Australia Project, Kerry Arabena. Together, they discuss the evidence-based model that is helping First Nations families move from planning through to parenthood.
We caught up with Uncle Richard Bell just before his June presentation at the Koorie Heritage Trust in Melbourne. Over the course of the interview we spoke about art as a form of activism, his youth and journey towards activism and artist.
There’s a hell of a lot more to the Koorie Heritage Trust (KHT) than typically meets the eye. We sit down and discuss the inner workings of this important organisation with its Chief Executive Officer, Tom Mosby.
In this exclusive interview with Djaara CEO Uncle Rodney Carter, we explore a first-of-its-kind (for Victoria) agreement between a Traditional Owner group and a gold mining operation.
We speak with Gunditjmara academic and education advocate Professor Mark Rose about bringing Aboriginal content and relevancy into the education system at all levels.
In this interview, VAN’s Charles Pakana catches up with Gurrin Gurrin artist Phillip Howe, to discuss the challenges and obligations facing Aboriginal artists practising on Country that is not theirs.
As we commence our series of interviews with Victorian Traditional owners about what true reconciliation means to them, we sit down with Wotjobaluk woman, Aunty Janine Coombs.
Gunditjmara man and co-Chair of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, Rueben Berg, returns to the VAN Talks podcast, discussing one of the key aspirations of a statewide treaty in Victoria - the sharing of political decision making with Traditional Owners and Victorian Aboriginal community.
From his office deep within the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, Michael Bell devotes his life to identifying and gaining recognition for all the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have donned an Australian military uniform or, on the home front, have given of themselves to support those on active service. We speak with Michael about his work and aspirations.
For nearly 20 years an Egyptian born retired Royal Australian Air Force Flight Sergeant has fought for greater recognition of the service and sacrifice of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service personnel. In this episode we catch up with Sam Halim, the man at the forefront of the Victorian Aboriginal Remembrance Committee.
For several decades there has been a story that has gained popularity, about the Australian Military Forces leaving behind in South Africa 50 Aboriginal Trackers. In this interview we speak with noted military historian - focusing on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander military service - Peter Bakker. Can the story stand up to scrutiny?
We continue our truth-telling podcast with Wurundjeri woi-wurrung Elder Uncle Dave Wandin about the true history of the Coranderrk mission, taking it up to current times.
In this extended episode of VAN Talks, Charles speaks with Wurundjeri woi-wurrung Elder Uncle Dave Wandin about the true history of the Coranderrk mission.
In this far-reaching interview, VAN’s Charles Pakana speaks with Dr Michelle Evans, the Director of the Dilin Duwa Center for Indigenous Business Leadersip at the University of Melbourne and Melbourne Business School.
Michelle is a recognised authority in the areas of indigenous leadership and entrepreneurship, and is also co-founder and program director of the award winning MURRA indigenous business masterclass program.
VAN’s Charles Pakana catches up with Thomas Mayo nearly four months after the referendum. They discuss a wide range of topics, from “where to from here?” to two new books coming out soon from Thomas, and why it’s important to stay calm as a campaigner.
After delivering a speech on 26 Jan this year, Victorian Aboriginal News founder and editor Charles Pakana was approach by Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Elder Aunty Diane Kerr. She mentioned to him that she had been recently the subject of an Andrew Bolt commentary on Sky News. Obviously, Charles had to find that commentary and do some fact-checking. The result? Well, check out this episode.
Following the October 2023 referendum, many have claimed that anti-Aboriginal sentiments have become increasingly prevalent. International reconciliation academic Professor Andrew Gunstone experienced this first-hand when he was boo’d off stage during a presentation at a Lions club on the 26th of January. He speaks about the experience with Charles Pakana, as well as discussing the way forward with “substantive” reconciliation.
In this episode we talk about cultural safety and cultural load int he workplace - issues that are often bandied around in the Australian workforce yet all too often left unaddressed. We also welcome back to the podcast the Reverend Uncle Glenn Loughrey, reflecting on the referendum and challenging us with a new way forward.
Our first podcast for the year kicks off with Natalie Hutchins MP, Minister for Treaty and First Nations, talking about the government's treaty preparation; and Uncle Rodney Carter, one of the two co-Chairs of the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria's Elders Voice.
Recorded at the State Library of Victoria, and celebrating the return of two culturally important artworks by William Barak, this episode has Charles speaking with Wurundjeri Elder Uncle Ron Jones, Victorian Minister and Assistant Treasurer Danny Pearson and Wurundjeri educator, language worker and artist Brooke Wandin.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Gathering Places play a huge role for community across Victoria, and at VAN Talks our goal is to visit and report from all of them over the next 12-to-18 months.
In today's podcast, we travel down to Hastings on Bunerong Country to visit the Willum Warrain (Home by the sea) and speak to some of the incredible staff that have made this gathering places one of the most successful across the state of Victoria.
In 2021, the Victorian Government launched the 2021-2026 Victorian Aboriginal and Local Government Strategy. We interviewed one of its key architects, Peek Whurrong man Jason Mifsud, shortly after the launch. Now, two years down the track, we once again sit with Jason and get down to some of the real nitty gritty of this innovative strategy that has been designed by Aboriginal People!
Yoorrook Commissioner Kerrupmara/Gunditjmara man Travis Lovett sits with VAN's Charles Pakana to discuss his experiences as the most recently appointed Yoorrook Commissioner and the work being undertaken in the latest round of investigations - into land, sky and waters.
For well over 20 years, Uncle Alan Thorpe has been single-mindedly focused on supporting Aboriginal men across Australia and working to help those men take an active role in building stronger families and safer communities.
As the CEO of Dardi Munwurro, Strong Spirit in Gunai language, he continues that work with a growing number of staff and supporters.
In July this year, at the recommendation of his community, Uncle Alan was named Victoria’s NAIDOC Male Elder of the Year. He joins us today to speak about his work and aspirations for Dardi Munwurro and community.
With the second iteration of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria firmly in place, we take a deep dive with Assembly co-chairs Ngarra Murray and Rueben Berg in where Victoria is currently positioned with regard to a statewide Treay.
This episode marks the commencement of an ongoing series of interviews and updates from and about the Assembly’s work.
As we kick off series 2 of our podcast, a logical flow-on from the Referendum 23 Tapes podcast, we initiate a series of discussions about Reconciliation in Victoria, starting with internationally renowned Reconciliation expert, Professor Andrew Gunstone.
Co-Chair of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, Gunditjmara man Rueben Berg, reflects on the divisive nature of the Voice referendum campaign and the need to heal community post referendum.
CEO of the Lowitja Institute, Janine Mohamed, reveals on the podcast how a Voice to Parliament has the potential to save the Federal Government $10 billion per year in healthcare alone.
SBS/NITV The Point co-host John Paul (JP) Janke joins Charles on the Referendum 2023 Tapes podcast to talk about a range of topics from “fear over fact” to the role of First Nations media in repairing the rift resulting from the various campaign factions.
With decades of public service and experience with government and bureaucracy under his belt, Yorta Yorta Elder Uncle Andrew Jackomos joins Charles to discuss the Voice to Parliament from a unique perspective.
Taungurung man and CEO of the Taungurung Land and Waters Council (TLaWC) Matthew Burns joins Charles on the podcast to share his thoughts on the positive impacts on all Australians - Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal - of a First Nations Voice to Parliament.
Based on his many years of work in government, community and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), Gunditjmara man Jason Mifsud is approaching the vote for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament with a “cautious Yes”.
Yorta Yorta man Ian Hamm speaks frankly to Charles in this episode, and delivers a frank, honest and totally refreshing perspective on an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament.
We’re joined today by Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Elder Uncle Andrew Gardiner. In this interview, Uncle Andrew touches on a broad range of subjects ranging from some of the misinformation surrounding the proposed Voice to Parliament through to Australia’s standing on the international stage.
Note: In this interview, Uncle Andrew is NOT speaking on behalf of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung People or the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria.
In our latest Referendum 2023 Tapes podcast, Charles speaks with one of Australia’s foremost activists and advocates for Aboriginal and Islander child care, Aunty Muriel Bamblett. In this far-ranging interview, the two discuss an array of social topics, each impacted by a possible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament.
In Victoria’s central west, the Dja Dja Wurrung People via their representative corporation, DJAARA, have come out in clear support of a Yes vote for a Voice to Parliament enshrined in the Constitution. Charles travels to Bendigo and yarns about this with DJAARA CEO, Uncle Rodney Carter.
Charles is joined in this podcast by the CEO of the Federation of Victorian Traditional Owner Corporations. Together, they discuss a broad range of topics relating to the Voice and the forthcoming referendum.
In a very special episode of the Referendum 2023 Tapes podcast, Charles is joined by two students, Sienna and Katelyn, from Our Lady of Mercy College Heidelberg. Both first-time voters, Sienna and Katelyn share their thoughts on a range of topics, including: truth in political advertising/campaigning, media-driven misinformation, their hopes for a Voice to Parliament, and a desire to see politicians relate for effectively with youth.
CEO of the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO), Aunty Jill Gallagher AO, speaks frankly to Charles about the very real and positive health outcomes she believes will emerge for Aboriginal People as a result of a successful Yes vote for the Voice to Parliament.
We first yarned with the Anglican Church’s Reverend Canon Glenn Loughrey in March this year. Now, after a hard five months on the road yarning up the referendum and Voice, we speak with him to gain an insight into the harsh realities of conversations on the ground.
In this short but succinct episode, we clearly disprove the claim by Sky News commentator Peta Credlin’s claim that the Uluru Statement is 26 pages. It isn’t!!!
Join us for a discussion about the work undertaken by the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative to promote a positive stand for a First Nations Voice to Parliament. CEO Simon Flagg and board member, Professor Aunty Wendy Brabham talk with Referendum ‘23 Tapes host Charles Pakana about their hopes for a better future with a Voice.
Bundjalung woman and CEO of Reconciliation Australia Karen Mundine speaks with host Charles Pakana about the need for respectful conversations about the proposed Voice to Parliament, and stresses that the work for reconciliation will continue unabated regardless of the referendum’s outcome.
Nyikina man Charles Prouse releases a new book that looks at the Voice to Parliament in a new light - without the politics!
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatry has lent its support to a First Nations Voice to Parliament. Citing the very real possibility that the Voice could address serious mental health and well-being problems within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, the College’s President, Dr. Elizabeth Moore, speaks frankly on the Referendum 23 Tapes.
What if you could gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the impact of the proposed enshrined voice to parliament? Join us as we converse with Lori-Anne Sharp, the Federal Assistant Secretary of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), about their support for a yes vote for an enshrined First Nations voice to Parliament.
Throughout this enlightening discussion, we explore the firsthand experiences of ANMF members working on the front lines of healthcare across Australia, addressing racism, providing culturally safe health services, and the role an enshrined voice could play in closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. Lori-Anne emphasises that this is just the first step towards reconciliation and that a continuous and effective avenue for advocacy at the highest level is crucial. Don't miss out on this crucial conversation for a deeper understanding of the pressing issues at hand.
A passionate advocate for greater education opportunities and support within First Nations communities, Yawuru/Bunuba woman Cara Peek, speaks about her experiences as part of the Uluru Dialogues, hopes for the future, and exposes misinformation.
Joining us today on the podcast is Professor Andrew Gunstone. He is the inaugural Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor Reconciliation at Federation University and provides institutional leadership on all reconciliation matters. Just recently, he has established the National Centre for Reconciliation, Truth, and Justice, and recruited three Indigenous Professors to the Centre. He is also Co-Chair of Reconciliation Victoria.
Confused by the referendum question and amendments currently being proposed regarding the First Nations Voice to Parliament? To gain greater clarity, Charles is joined by leading constitutional lawyer, Professor Cheryl Saunders.
Despite the hook on which many hang their rationale for a NO vote - the supposed absence of local and regional voices - we reveal the truth about this all-important issue. In this episode we speak to one of the key players in advising the Federal Government on the makeup of the Voice, Torres Strait Islander man Thomas Mayo.
Misinformation is a growth industry in the world of the Australian referendum for a First Nations Voice to Parliament. In this episode of the Referendum ‘23 Tapes podcast, Charles Pakana dissects fully a commentary made by Andrew Bolt on Sky News Australia as posted on Youtube. It’s important to note that we’re fully up for calling out anyone spreading mistruths, regardless of whether they’re advocating No or Yes!
On the 26th of March, South Australia led the way with a First Nations Voice to that State’s Parliament. In this episode of the VAN Referendum ‘23 Tapes podcast, we speak to the South Australia Commissioner for Voice, Dale Agius.
Member of the First Nations Referendum Working Group and Taungurung man Marcus Stewart joins Charles on the Ref 23 Tapes podcast to talk about the role and efforts of the Working Group.
The CEO of the Fred Hollows Foundation, Ian Wishart, joins Charles on the Referendum 23 Tapes podcast to discuss the 144-strong coalition of Australian social justice organisations formally supporting a First Nations Voice to Parliament.
Rather than adding another layer of bureaucracy, the National Party of Australia advocates for greater empowerment of local First Nations communities as an option to a First Nations Voice to Parliament
Kate Thwaites, MP, Chair of the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters, speaks with Charles Pakana on proposed changes to some of the ways in which Australia runs its referendums.
Head of NITV, Tanya Denning Orman, discusses the SBS/NITV strategy that will guide the networks coverage of the Referendum campaign for a First Nations Voice to Parliament
Commencing our series of interviews with politicians from both sides of the Referendum campaign, we are joined by the Federal Member for Cooper, Ged Kearney, MP.
Wiradjuri man, Reverend Canon Glenn Loughrey from the Anglican Church joins us on the Referendum ‘23 Tapes podcast to discuss the role of the church in promoting reliable information on the First Nations Voice to Parliament referendum, and the need for asking questions and joining in conversations.
The City of Newcastle, like so many local government authorities across Australia has been listening for First Nations voice for several decades. Chair of the city’s Guraki Aboriginal Advisory Committee, Luke Russell, talks with Ref ‘23 Tapes about successes and moving towards the Referendum
In a broad conversation, the From The Heart’s National Field Organiser Emily Holm speaks with Victorian Aboriginal News on topics ranging from local government involvement in educating community to the importance of correct information above pushing home specific messages.
Architect of the Mayors for the Voice to Parliament Public Statement, Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne, joins us to discuss the important role local government has in the forthcoming referendum.
Carlo Carli, Chair of the Federation of Ethnic Communities Councils of Australia (FECCA) joins Victorian Aboriginal News journalist Charles Pakana to discuss the strong support for a First Nations Voice to Parliament from ethnic communities.
Reconciliation Victoria has been at the forefront of a First Nations alliance for two decades. With a First Nations Voice referendum on the horizon, that alliance is picking up momentum.
As mentioned at the end of podcast number one, in this episode we start our understanding of that one powerful document - the Australian Constitution - that the Federal Government and 250 First Nations delegates to the Uluru Dialogues are hoping will soon have an enshrined First Nations Voice to Parliament.
Guiding us is the University of Melbourne’s Professor Cheryl Saunders, Emeritus President of the International Association of Constitutional Law.
Torres Strait Islander, signatory to the Uluru Statement from the Heart and author Thomas Mayo speaks to us about a First Nations Voice to Parliament enshrined in the Australian Constitution.