Nominations have opened for a vacant position on Victoria's First Peoples' Assembly representing the state's northeast, after the body's youngest member stepped down last year.
The Assembly, which began meeting in December 2019, is an independent and democratically elected body set up to create the framework that will guide Victoria's treaty negotiations.
Yorta Yorta, Kurnai, Walpiri and Wiradjeri woman Natarsha Bamblett announced she was stepping back in late 2021.
"My advice for whoever fills the seat I'm leaving, is lean into the process, but support yourself and stay connected with your roots," she said.
"Work arm in arm with the other members and step into the power of the opportunity that this sacred space, this collective voice presents to all of us."
Any Traditional Owner of Country in the northeast, aged over 18, can nominate as a candidate in the by-election.
The region includes Echuca, Mansfield, Rushworth, Shepparton, Tallangatta, Wangaratta and Wodonga.
Nominated candidates can receive up to $1000, as well as non-financial support, to help with their election campaign.
The successful candidate will serve until the Assembly's next general election, expected to occur before December 2023.
"Being an Assembly member can be challenging but it is incredibly worthwhile," co-chair, Bangerang and Wiradjuri Elder, Aunty Geraldine Atkinson said.
"This is about putting Aboriginal people in the driver's seat and so obviously selecting our representatives as a key part of the journey to Treaty."
An outdoor concert will be held in Shepparton on February 26 to coincide with the by-election, featuring First Nations performers including Yothu Yindi, Archie Roach, Briggs and Electric Fields.
Nominations close at 7pm on February 7, with voting to run from February 26 until 11pm on March 27.
Voting is open to Traditional Owners, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people who have lived in Victoria for three out of the past five years.
Australian Associated Press
