The National Native Title Tribunal will hold information sessions in Kaniva, Ouyen and Horsham next week. Tribunal Member Sean Flood and representatives will address public meetings in Kaniva and Horsham as well as meeting with local government authorities and other interested groups.
"The meetings have been arranged so the whole community has a chance to better understand native title and and the Tribunal's processes," Mr Flood said.
"When the native title application by the Aboriginal people of central-western Victoria, known traditionally as the Wotjobaluk people and their neighbours, was lodged there was a lot of confusion in the community.
"It needs to be understood, native title agreements are reached through mediation and negotiation. The Tribunal doesn't tell people what form those agreements will take, it merely provides a mediation service that can bring all those with an interest in a claim together so issues of mutual interest can be discussed.
"Out of these discussions, it's hoped agreements can be reached that suit the native title claimants and all parties to the application," he said.
The Wotjobaluk application covers vacant Crown land, waters, reserve land, state forests and national parks in western Victoria, including areas in the Big Desert area, the Little Desert National Park and Wyperfeld National Park. The applicants have not claimed native title over any freehold land.
Tribunal representatives will meet with West Wimmera Shire Council on Wednesday, 6 March, followed by a public information session at 7.30pm in the Kaniva Shire Hall.
On Thursday, 7 March, Tribunal representatives will meet with Mildura Shire Council in Ouyen and later with Horsham Council and other local government authorities in Horsham.
A public information session will be held on the same day at 7.30pm in the Civic Centre Theatrette, Urquhart Street, Horsham.
For details on the Native Title Tribunal information sessions or for easy-to-understand information on native title, contact Susan Barnacle at the Tribunal on 1800 640 501.
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