In a new government initiative, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria will receive profits from renewable energy projects on their Traditional Land. Environment Minister Lily D'Ambrosio told the Yoorrook Justice Commission that active efforts were being made to steer revenue streams to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Counsel assisting Fiona McLeod asked Ms D'Ambrosio on how the plans could unfold.
The total value of gold extracted since colonisation in Victoria in today's terms is $287.4 billion. Commissioner Travis Lovett pointed out the figure was a lot of money and asked Ms D'Ambrosio what efforts the government was making to return any portion of the wealth to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Victorians. "It is a lot of money and very little, if any ," she said. "Certainly no royalties that have gone to traditional owners.