David Tutchener
David Tutchener, has a background in archaeology and anthropology. He acknowledges the ongoing trauma caused by colonisation in Victoria, highlighting the need for meaningful recognition and healing. They advocate for a treaty with each Traditional Owner group, reparations, and recognition that colonialism is not a thing of the past - but is still present today.
Submission Transcription
I’m grateful and fortunate to have worked (on and off) for traditional owners in Victoria for a number of years. I am a male of European decent. I acknowledged the commitment and contribution traditional owners have made to my world. My professional training (archeology and anthropology) is based within the colonial system, from which I have benefited, and so I attempt to decolonise myself and my work. My understanding of the colonisation of Victoria is that simply, the attempted genocide of Indigenous people in Victoria – and Australia needs to be recognised before any meaningful healing may take place. Colonisation has impacted Indigenous people deeply and this trauma is still present in intergenerational inequality today.
Varied, I learnt very little at school, but quite a bit at university. Much of my learning came from working with and for traditional owners, not through the formal education system.
A full treaty with each Traditional Owner group, and reparations made for their loss during colonialism. We also need a recognition that colonialism is not a thing of the past – but is still present today.
By working for Traditional Owners, by speaking truth regarding colonialism – and by advocating for the human rights of Indigenous people in Victoria.
By working for Traditional Owners, by speaking truth regarding colonialism – and by advocating for the human rights of Indigenous people in Victoria.
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Reports and Recommendations
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Yoorrook for Transformation
Third Interim Report: A five-volume comprehensive reform report presenting evidence and findings on systemic injustices, and specific recommendations for meaningful change to transform the future.
Truth Be Told
An official public record that documents First Peoples experiences since colonisation, preserves crucial testimonies for future generations and creates an enduring resource for education and understanding.
Recommendations for change
Yoorrook Justice Commission’s recommendations for truth-telling, justice, and systemic reform in Victoria.
