Lidia Thorpe’s cousins pursuing contentious Victorian treaty negotiations model

Two cousins of federal senator Lidia Thorpe are pursuing a contentious model of representation for Victoria's landmark treaty negotiations as they seek to be elected to the state's First People's Assembly.

Voting for the second term of the assembly will commence next month after nominations for the 32-seat Indigenous body closed on Monday, ahead of a treaty negotiations due to begin this year.

A universal income for Indigenous elders, reserved seats in state parliament and co-ownership of renewable energy infrastructure are among the issues raised by candidates.

But the elections are also likely to reignite a debate over the representation of traditional owners at the assembly.

Lisa Thorpe - a cousin of the federal senator - said her priority was ensuring 38 language groups had a reserved seat at the First Peoples' Assembly.

"How would having a wide treaty include them if they're not sitting there?" said the Gunnai, Gunditjmara, Tjapwhurrung, Wemba Wemba, Boonwurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung woman.

Lidia Thorpe, whose mother, Marjorie, is also running as a candidate, has long called for the 38 Indigenous nations model of representation at the assembly - a contested model of traditional ownership in Victoria.