Thursday, 20 November 2025

 Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice) (12:21): This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Aboriginal justice agreement in Victoria. For a quarter of a century successive governments have worked in partnership with Aboriginal communities to keep Aboriginal people out of contact with the criminal justice system. It is a partnership that will go from strength to strength alongside our treaty, because on this side of the house we believe that the strength of this partnership is key to achieving better outcomes. Over the past 25 years we have seen many Aboriginal organisations and individuals step up for the good of their communities and for all Victorians. Last week it was a pleasure to attend the most recent Aboriginal justice awards alongside the Attorney-General in the other place. This celebration of strength and resilience was held on the same day that the Governor signed treaty into law, making it an even more momentous occasion. A number of awards were presented across a range of categories of excellence. All of the recipients represented the great work that is happening right across the state to improve outcomes for Aboriginal people. One recipient I want to give a special shout-out to who is probably a person known to many in this chamber is Shaun Braybrook, who won the Uncle Andrew Jackomos Award. Shaun is a long-time member of Corrections Victoria and is responsible for establishing and running Wulgunggo Ngalu Learning Place in Gippsland. Wulgunggo Ngalu is a residential diversion program for Aboriginal men completing community corrections orders. During their time there participants connect to culture – for many, it is a reconnection to culture – and engage in education, employment and life skills programs that are proven to reduce the risk of reoffending. Congratulations to Shaun and all of the award recipients. Thank you for your hard work.