Implementation and monitoring

This theme focuses on the processes for keeping track of and sharing information on actions taken to implement recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody (RCIADIC). The Commission emphasised that governments must implement Royal Commission recommendations transparently and in partnership with Aboriginal communities, and called for regular public reporting, local consultation, and the establishment of Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committees.

In Victoria, these principles were realised through the development of the Aboriginal Justice Agreement (AJA), beginning in 2000. The Agreement established long-term structures for partnership, including the Aboriginal Justice Caucus, Regional Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committees, and the Aboriginal Justice Forum (AJF). Over four phases of the AJA, Victoria moved from annual reporting toward ongoing monitoring and evaluation frameworks co-designed with the Aboriginal community.

The AJC’s leadership of Looking Back, Moving Forward, reflects the intent of RCIADIC’s implementation and monitoring recommendations. Evaluations of AJA2 and 3 demonstrate a maturing partnership model and strong community ownership. AJA4 further embedded self-determination through data dashboards, Aboriginal-defined indicators, and a Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Framework. Complementary strategies such as the Victorian Aboriginal Affairs Framework (VAAF) and the Self-Determination Reform Framework have expanded accountability across sectors. However, the Yoorrook Justice Commission, found gaps in consistent monitoring and visibility of individual RCIADIC recommendations within public reporting.

The AJC continues to push for an Aboriginal-led review process, including tracking the implementation of coronial inquest recommendations, to ensure long-term transparency and accountability to our community.