The Andrews Labor Government has released the first draft management plan for the Dja Dja Wurrung People – central to the cultural identity and well-being of Victorian Traditional Owner communities.

The Draft plan translates the aspirations of the Dja Dja Wurrung People for their Country, and incorporates their traditional knowledge, culture and practices into the joint management of the parks and reserves.

The plan symbolises the partnership between the Dja Dja Wurrung People and the Government – and is only the second plan of its kind in Victoria.

In 2013 six parks and reserves in Central Victoria were transferred into Aboriginal Title to be jointly managed by Dja Dja Wurrung people, Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal and the Labor Government.

The parks and reserves under Aboriginal Title are Hepburn Regional Park, Paddys Ranges State Park, Kooyoora State Park, Wehla Conservation Reserve, Greater Bendigo National Park and Kara Kara State Park.

The Dhelkunya Dja Land Management Board was appointed to develop a Joint Management Plan in partnership with, and on behalf of, the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation and the Victorian Government for the parks and reserves under Aboriginal Title.

The parks and reserves will continue to be open for the enjoyment of the public and will protect and conserve significant cultural and environmental sites.

Traditional Owners and public land managers are working together in partnership, to share knowledge and skills and incorporate Traditional Owner culture into the joint management of parks and reserves.

The Government is supporting Traditional Owner interests through the Traditional Owner Settlement Act, which underpins Victoria’s innovative model for joint management and recognises the ongoing connection of Traditional Owners to the land.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“We’re working with Traditional Owners on how the land is managed.”

“This is about jobs, education and training – to ensure that the natural and cultural values of parks and reserves under Aboriginal title are preserved for future generations.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins

“This is another significant step towards self-determination for Dja Dja Wurrung People, and recognises their close and ongoing connection to Country.”