The National Native Title Council (NNTC) congratulates the Latji Latji, Ngintait and Nyeri Nyeri Peoples on securing exclusive possession over parts of their Country in a new native title consent determination handed down by the Federal Court of Australia.

“This determination is a significant step forward in the recognition of Traditional Owners’ native title rights. Latji Latji, Ngintait, and Nyeri Nyeri Peoples have paved the way for future generations by securing exclusive possession rights over part of their land,” said Kado Muir, Chair of the NNTC.

“With nearly forty-five percent of Australia’s land and sea mass now covered by native title, it’s historic to see exclusive native title rights recognised in Victoria for the first time,’ said Mr Muir.

The decision marks the culmination of decades of work by Traditional Owners to achieve legal recognition of their pre-colonial existence and the enduring survival of traditional laws and customs across Country in the Millewa-Mallee region of north-west Victoria.

“The NNTC pays tribute to the tireless advocacy of the Latji Latji, Ngintait and Nyeri Nyeri Peoples. This determination recognises Millewa-Mallee First Peoples’ unbroken connection to Country and perseverance in asserting their cultural rights,” said Jamie Lowe, CEO of the NNTC.

“Once native title is recognised by the Federal Court, it is permanent. It can’t be sold, given away or taken back. That recognition lasts forever, and it belongs to Traditional Owners and their future generations.

“Millewa-Mallee Traditional Owners have secured legal recognition of what they have always known – that they never ceded connection to their land. Achieving exclusive rights means current and future generations now have decision-making powers to protect Country, pursue economic opportunities, and keep culture strong,” said Mr Lowe.

ENDS

For all media enquiries please contact Sarah Easson, Head of Media Relations. E: sarah.easson@nntc.com.au or M: 0419 228 642