The National Native Title Council says today’s Federal Court judgment in the Yindjibarndi native title compensation case illustrates the scale of unpaid compensation owed to Traditional Owners.

“The Yindjibarndi People in the Pilbara have had recognised native title rights for more than two decades, but they have spent four years in the courts to access some of the compensation owed to them,” said Jamie Lowe, CEO of the National Native Title Council.

“Like any other landholder, native title holders are entitled to compensation when their property rights are infringed. Yet First Nations communities face expensive legal battles to access the compensation owed to them.

“Hundreds of Traditional Owner organisations nationwide are owed compensation for past and continuing acts. Unpaid monies represent lost economic development and investment opportunities for First Nations communities.

“Requiring Traditional Owners to litigate case by case, against well-resourced governments and corporations, is not a viable approach. Australia needs a National Compensation Framework that delivers fair and timely redress.

“The Federal Government is handing down a budget today that claims to address inequality. The most profound inequality of this country’s history demands a Federal Government response. That is, the dispossession of First Nations people from our lands, and the exclusion of our people from the billions that companies like Fortescue are generating from our land,” said Jamie Lowe.

“The NNTC pays tribute to the extraordinary leadership of the Yindjibarndi People and their determination to exercise their native title rights, up against one of Australia’s biggest mining companies,” said Kado Muir, Chair of the National Native Title Council.

“The Yindjibarndi People’s perseverance is an inspiration to other Traditional Owners who continue to fight for what they are owed,” said Kado Muir.

Media Contact:
E: jessica.kendall@nntc.com.au or M: 0414 679 857