Aboriginal people in the territory will be offered low-interest loans and 99-year leases on their land to encourage private ownership and economic development.
Labor Senator Chris Evans says the changes will force indigenous people into leasing their land in exchange for basic services such as housing, schools and health facilities. “The government's proposition fundamentally undermines traditional owners' say over what occurs on their land. This is their property. And every measure the government seems to take is about undermining their ability to have a say over that land.”
But Liberal Senator, Rod Kemp says the changes will help overcome serious economic disadvantage in Indigenous communities. He has rejected opposition claims the laws were rushed through parliament.
“All of us recognise that action must be taken in this particular area and yes, there have been consultations, some of which have extended for nine years of this matter. And at the end of the day, people have got to reach a decision. And the government has reached a decision.”
Some minor amendments about leasing benefits will now go to the House of Representatives for approval.