Last week, Murdoch University hosted First Nations advocate and former Deputy Chair and Commissioner of the Yoorrook Justice Commission Travis Lovett, for a conversation about the importance of Truth-Telling.

A proud Kerrupmara/Gunditjmara man, Mr Lovett played a key role in both Implementing the State of Victoria’s Treaty and informing the Closing the Gap strategy.

In 2025, he led the groundbreaking Walk for Truth from Gunditjmara Country to Parliament House in Naarm (Melbourne).

Staff, students from Murdoch University and local community members had the opportunity to hear how First Nations peoples shared their stories and truths to build Victoria’s first historic record of the State’s true history. 

“You can’t have a Treaty, without the Truth,” Mr Lovett said.

He talked about the importance of shining a light on the systemic and ongoing impacts of colonisation through truth-telling.

Firsthand accounts and truth-telling from First Nations peoples were significant for the 2021-2025 Commission, which resulted in a report with more than 100 recommendations.

Mr Lovett said sovereignty, and championing Aboriginal leaders was paramount moving forward, and that universities would play an important part. 

“Universities have a pivotal role – they're training future lawyers, teachers and industry leaders,” he said.

It’s important to encourage our young people not to wait to get a voice. 

In 2024, Murdoch University launched its First Nations sub-strategy, which had four key focuses: truth-telling, self-determination, Indigenous excellence and Indigenisation. 

Senior Training and Engagement Manager First Nations Elisha Jacobs-Smith said Mr Lovett’s talk highlighted the power of collective action.

“Truth ignites momentum. Once we hear it, we have the responsibility to lead with action.”