ELder Morwell Vic. 3840 19 May 2008

Dear ....

Please find enclosed herewith copies:-

The Australian 16th May 2008 "Koori courts help cut repeat offences" 2 pages please note Rob Hulls the Attorney-General of Victoria stated:-

"The Koori defendant must consent to the Jurisdiction of the County Koori Court, and have pleaded guilty to the offence"

also

The Australian May 9th 2008 "Kooris court a waste of Money" by Peter Faris 2 pages. "The new court is supposed to be based upon the success of the Koori Magistrates Court, which disposes of 150 cases involving Aboriginal a year in six courts-an average of one a fortnight."

I point out, During 1996 the Embassy brought to attention of the Victorian Government that they had now proper legislated power to make laws for the Aboriginal People of Victoria,
We are greatly concerned that the if Victorian Governments proposed Korri County Court is successful it’s role may well be used later, to support the Governments and the Courts Jurisdiction over the Aboriginal People of Victoria.

We feel it would be in the best interest of our people, if the Victorian Parliament could clarify that it has proper lawful legislated Jurisdiction over our people. A very simple issue, that must be resolved, before any proposed Koori County Court are considered.

Yours sincerely

Les McDonald
Chief Lore Officer
Aboriginal Embassy Victoria