A $38 million native title agreement has been reached between the Kariyarra people and the West Australian government after six years of negotiations.
The landmark agreement will deliver land and monetary benefits to the Kariyarra people, and recognise native title over areas within their claim, enabling expansion of the Port Hedland port and development of residential land in South Hedland.
The indigenous land use agreement includes transfer of some urban and rural lots in freehold, including several with refurbished houses and units.
It also includes reserved use and direct management of some Crown land parcels, the recognition and protection of heritage sites, and a five per cent payment on lots developed on Crown land in an area of South Hedland.
"The ILUA negotiation has been a long, challenging journey that has changed the way we see ourselves and empowered us to create a better future for our people," elder Diana Robinson said on Friday.
Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt said the agreement would provide opportunities for self-determined economic activity among the Kariyarra people.
"Fostering economic activities in our regional and remote communities is the only way we will secure lasting change and improved outcomes for Aboriginal people," he said.
Share
