Tuesday, 8 September 2026

 Anasina GRAY-BARBERIO (Northern Metropolitan) (13:02): (2583) My constituency question is for the Premier. Nyayioni, a young woman from my multicultural youth advisory committee, raised with me the lack of a public holiday recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The Northern Metro Region is home to approximately 14 per cent of Victoria’s Aboriginal population. Nyayioni highlighted that while NAIDOC Week, National Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week recognise First Nations’ histories, cultures and experiences, none is a public holiday. The ACT is the only Australian jurisdiction with a public holiday specifically focused on reconciliation with First Nations peoples. Following Australia’s first treaty, Victoria must continue to lead. My constituents ask: will you commit to establishing a public holiday recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and celebrating their cultures, history and achievements?