Explore the past, present and future of Treaty with Victoria’s First Peoples.
Victoria is on a path to Treaty with First Peoples – a path that could bring us closer together and mark a significant step towards reconciliation. As Victoria moves forward on the path towards Truth and Treaty, it is timely to reflect on our history, hear from Aboriginal communities and consider what the future may hold.
In this exhibition, explore a historic collection of items related to the first and only known claim to ‘treaty’ in Australia, the Batman Treaty.
The Batman Treaty was marked by John Batman and Victorian Aboriginal leaders in June 1835. It was almost immediately declared invalid by the Commonwealth. However, it remains a critical piece of history. Come and view the original treaty documents, alongside a painting of the Batman Treaty signing by John Wesley Burtt, and maps which detail the area that Batman intended to acquire.
A central space in the exhibition, inspired by the majestic tree depicted in Burtt’s painting, encourages contemplation and conversation. Videos displayed in this space share the diverse perspectives of Victoria’s Aboriginal community, providing a link between the manuscripts of the past and the path to Treaty today and into the future.
Presented by State Library Victoria through the Victorian Indigenous Research Centre, with the support of the Hansen Little Foundation.
Event Details:
Dates: Open daily from Sunday 27 October to Sunday 26 January 2026 10am to 6pm
Location: South Rotunda at the State Library of Victoria
Tickets: FREE entry