Wednesday, 31 August 2022

Ministers statements: Commonwealth Games

Mr LEANE (Eastern Metropolitan—Minister for Commonwealth Games Legacy, Minister for Veterans) (12:25): Today I would like to update the house on the Victorian regional 2026 Commonwealth Games. It was fantastic to join the Deputy Premier and Minister for Commonwealth Games Delivery, Jacinta Allan—good minister—last week at the Commonwealth Games partnership forum. The forum was held with representatives of councils, traditional owners and Aboriginal community members, and representatives from business, tourism, education, sport and recreation communities.

I recently visited each of the hub locations for the Victorian regional 2026 Commonwealth Games and met with key traditional owner groups. As part of our commitment to include traditional owners and our First Peoples in all aspects of design, management and legacy for the games, we have listened to their needs for capacity building and resourcing support. Therefore at the forum I was very pleased to announce the Andrews Labor government will invest $2.7 million to support traditional owner corporations across the four regional hubs. This investment will ensure Indigenous voices and culture are at the heart of decision-making as we build towards Victoria 2026. It is a very good thing.

Can I thank the Minister for Treaty and First Peoples, Gabrielle Williams, and her office for their support in making this announcement. It is going to be a fantastic event, and it is a great opportunity for us to showcase and be proud of the oldest living culture in the world.