The plan was developed in partnership with the VEC’s Aboriginal Advisory Group, made up of Elders and community leaders from both metro and regional Victoria.
It outlines how the commission will work to remove barriers to enrolment and voting and encourage greater participation in the democratic process.
“I’d like to acknowledge the VEC’s Aboriginal Advisory Group, who have shared their history, their trauma and their ongoing challenges, and in turn challenged us to rethink the way we work to ensure Victoria’s electoral services are culturally welcoming, engaging and respectful,” electoral commissioner Sven Bluemmel said.
Named by Wurundjeri, Ngurai Illum Wurrung woman Dr Mandy Nicholson, and featuring artwork by her daughter, Wurundjeri artist Kyya Nicholson Ward, the plan’s name and artwork are intended to reflect the VEC’s ties to Wurundjeri people.
It sets out three priorities: building First Nations Peoples’ trust in the electoral process, boosting participation and supporting self-determination.
“This plan aims to show how active participation in the electoral process can positively influence cultural priorities like language development, cultural and social identity, improving poverty and health,” Mr Bluemmel said.
The full plan is available on the VEC website.
