NNTC Submission on the Independent Review of the Water Act 2007 Discussion Paper July 2026

Whilst the Water Act 2007 recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples spiritual, cultural, environmental, social and economic matters in its Objects, recognition of values is not the same as recognition of rights. First Nations peoples must not continue to be treated as stakeholders in water management – they are rightsholders. This submission calls for a fundamental shift from consultation and participation to partnership, shared decision making and ultimately the recognition and exercise of First Nations authority and rights in water governance.

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