| “We commend the leadership shown by Victoria in taking this historic step,” said Dr Rateb Jneid, President of AFIC. |
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AFIC Welcomes Historic Victorian Treaty with First Nations People
31/10/2025
(See translation in Arabic section)
Sydney-Middle East Times Int'l: The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) applauds the passage of historic treaty legislation by the Victorian Parliament marking the first formal treaty between a government and First Nations peoples in Australian history.
This is an important and long-overdue step in the journey of truth, justice, and reconciliation that this nation must take with its First Peoples. It is a moment of dignity and recognition that resonates far beyond Victoria and one that speaks to the kind of country we aspire to be: honest about its past, and committed to a more just and inclusive future.
“We commend the leadership shown by Victoria in taking this historic step,” said Dr Rateb Jneid, President of AFIC. “This treaty is an act of recognition, of respect, and of repair. It acknowledges the unceded sovereignty of the First Peoples of this land and opens the door to a future built on justice, partnership, and truth.”
AFIC urges all Australian states, territories, and the Commonwealth Government to follow Victoria’s lead and pursue treaty processes that are genuinely led by and responsive to First Nations communities. Reconciliation cannot be a symbolic gesture, it must be a structural and sustained commitment to justice and equity.
AFIC reaffirms its unwavering support for the First Nations of this country and recognises the deep spiritual, cultural, and historical connection they have to this land. As a national body representing Australian Muslims from all backgrounds, AFIC believes that true reconciliation is essential to building a nation that is not only multicultural but truly inclusive and just for all.
We celebrate this moment with our First Nations brothers and sisters and stand in continued solidarity with their struggle for rights, recognition, and justice.
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AFIC, established in 1964, stands as the Peak Muslim Organisation in Australia, with 170 members including 9 State and Territory Councils. It has a rich history of pioneering numerous community services and actively advocating for the rights and representation of the Muslim community.
Authorised:
Dr Rateb Jneid
President - AFIC |
