Presiding member of SA First Nations Voice to Parliament Danni Smith addressed parliament in a joint sitting this morning, where she said truth-telling and treaty would be the next step in the state’s journey towards “justice and reconciliation”.

The call follows Victoria finalising its Statewide Treaty Agreement on Thursday morning – Australia’s first treaty with Aboriginal people to be formally signed into law.

“We therefore renew our calls for the establishment of an independent commission for truth telling and treaty led by First Nations South Australians,” Smith said.

“The Uluru Statement from the Heart sets out the path for the voice, treaty and truth. South Australia has achieved the first, now we must work together for the second and the third.”

“Without truth, we cannot heal. Without treaty, we cannot move beyond words to agreement.”

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The annual address outlined the progress of the Voice to Parliament and was the second parliament address since the First Nations Voice Bill was passed in March 2023.

“Despite all challenges we have faced, we have shown that a First Nations voice to Parliament can and does work,” Smith said.

“We have delivered results that will help close the gap and improve the lives of not just First Nations people in South Australia, but everyone living in our state.”

This year, the Voice had been consulted on 10 bills and had provided submissions and advice on five including the Children and Young People Safety and Support Bill.

“Many bills have changed directly because of our advice, while some did not — this is the challenge of being an advisory body,” she said.

“Regardless, we are receiving and taking hold of the opportunities to provide advice to ensure First Nations perspectives inform the laws that shape our children’s future, our family’s and our community’s.”

Smith said that this year’s achievements “are proof that when we work together, positive change follows”.

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Kyam Maher said the government remained committed to “the full implementation of the Uluru Statement in South Australia”.

“Work has commenced on looking at these aspects and particularly what other jurisdictions in Australia and around the world have done,” Maher said.

“Discussions with the Voice have been held, and the government looks forward to continue seeking their views and the views of others.”