Two central Northern Territory native title applications have taken a step closer to mediation with public notices issued inviting affected landowners and other interest-holders to register for talks.
Northern Territory National Native Title Tribunal Manager, Ian Williams, said that in each case, the native title claimants had asked for their traditional rights to be recognised over the areas.
"The first step in settling these applications is to hold mediation meetings aimed at reaching voluntary agreements that respect everyone's rights and interests", he said.
Mr Williams said: "The law is clear that native title cannot take away the valid rights and interests of other citizens, including lease or licence holders.
"But these land-holders and other interest holders may want to be involved in working out how their rights can coexist with those of the Indigenous traditional owners."
The applications advertised are:
- Kalkarindji: within the Daguragu Community Government Council area, located within the Town of Kalkarindji.
- Jimmy Frank Jakkamara and Others: (Lots 472, 1053, 1266, 1307, 1311, 1338, 1363, 1365 Town of Tennant Creek) within the Municipality of Tennant Creek.
The applications exclude private freehold land, which is not claimable.
People with an interest have until 15 August 2001 to register with the Federal Court if they want to be involved in the mediations. |