By Christine Chen

SYDNEY (Reuters) -The Australian state of Victoria on Thursday signed into law the country’s first treaty with Indigenous people, hailed by advocates as a major step towards reconciliation by giving first inhabitants more oversight on decisions that concern them.

The treaty, which will take effect on December 12, delivers a formal apology to Australia’s First Nations people and establishes a permanent representative body to provide advice to the Victorian government.

“Today marks a new chapter in the story of our state,” Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said at a signing ceremony in Melbourne.

“When people have a real say over the things that impact their lives, their healthcare, housing, education, and the practice of their culture, their outcomes are improved and our

See Full Page