The true path
forward
starts hereThe true
path
forward
starts here
The Yoorrook Justice Commission was Victoria's and Australia's first formal truth-telling inquiry into historic and ongoing systemic injustices perpetrated against First Peoples through colonisation, led by First Peoples.
Over four years, thousands of Victorians took part and shared their truths as formal evidence. Now we all have the chance to listen and learn from the truths shared with Yoorrook.
History
For tens of thousands of years, First Peoples cared for Country, living with rich cultures, languages and knowledge systems. That changed with colonisation, which brought dispossession, violence, stolen generations, and systemic injustice—impacts that continue today.
The Commission
Generations of First Peoples have called for truth-telling—for the stories of injustice, survival, and resilience to be formally heard and acknowledged. In response, Yoorrook was established as the first formal truth-telling inquiry in Australia.
Truth-Telling Commission in Australia
Engagements with First Peoples
Submissions received
Public hearing days
Events including community information sessions, speaking engagements, Elders yarns and roundtable discussions
Documents from government agencies, education providers and other organisations
Shared Truths
Over its journey, Yoorrook visited communities across Victoria, creating culturally safe spaces for First Peoples to share their truths. Thousands of submissions were received—personal stories, historical records, visual artworks, and oral testimonies.
This collection is a living archive, preserving truth for future generations and informing action today.
Focus Areas
Yoorrook’s truth-telling process was designed to leave no part of life unexamined. The Commission investigated how colonisation and systemic injustice have shaped First Peoples’ experiences across vital areas.
These areas are deeply connected, with injustice in one area rippling into others. 
By understanding this interwoven picture, the Truths received by Yoorrook highlight not 
only the scale of harm, but also the strength, resilience and solutions that First Peoples have carried forward.
Access to records
Understand barriers to accessing vital personal records.
Reports
Yoorrook’s reports are more than just documents—they are a roadmap for systemic change. Based directly on the truths shared, these reports demand action from government, institutions, and all Victorians.
Recommendations
The Commission’s recommendations set out the actions needed to address past and ongoing injustices experienced by First Peoples.
