16 November 2007
Commissioner Calma applauds resolution of native title claim
Resolution this week of a 13-year-old native title application is an important reminder of the need for focus, commitment and flexibility in resolving native title claims, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Tom Calma, said today.
Congratulating the Wiradjuri Wellington Town Common Aboriginal Corporation (WWTCAC) on being granted ownership of Wellington Town Common adjacent to the Nanima Reserve, Mr Calma said the process had been long, but ultimately delivered what the Wiradjuri had been seeking – ownership of the land.
“I would like to personally congratulate the WWTCAC, the NSW Government, the Department of Lands and Wellington Council for persisting with all the meetings and mediations that were involved in reaching the agreement,” Mr Calma said.
“The transfer of Wellington Common to WWTCAC is a good outcome which now provides some certainty for all.”
First lodged in 1994, the Wiradjuri Wellington native title application was the first native title claim in Australia under the Native Title Act 1993.
Under the agreement, the parties have come to a satisfactory arrangement by which the native title applicants surrender any native title rights that may have existed in the lands. They also forfeit the rights to compensation for the loss of these rights or interests they may have held.
In return, the applicants receive the transfer of freehold title of Wellington Common to the WWTCAC.
Land has also been made available to the NSW Department of Lands and the local council for public roads and a public reserve.
Media contact: Louise McDermott 02 9284 9851 or 0419 258 597
