In just two and a half years, the McGowan Government has resolved 44 native title claims representing approximately 488,000 square kilometres, an area approximately the same size as Spain.
Importantly, in line with State Government policy, 38 of the 44 claims were resolved by agreement with the parties.
Today’s Gnulli determination incorporates approximately 69,000 square kilometres in the shires of Ashburton, Carnarvon, Exmouth and Upper Gascoyne.
It includes the towns of Exmouth, Carnarvon and Coral Bay, and covers some of Western Australia’s most significant areas including the Ningaloo Marine Park.
Once again the determination was made by the consent of all parties, thus avoiding expensive and prolonged litigation.
Both exclusive and non-exclusive native title rights and interests are recognised.
As stated by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt:
“I’d like to congratulate the Ingaarda-Teddei, Baiyungu and Talangi Peoples on achieving formal recognition of their native title rights in the Gnulli determination area.
“I also acknowledge, and am heartened by, the general commitment of the large number of parties to the Gnulli claims to reach agreement over this very important area.
“A native title determination is not just an action in the Federal Court. It is a very important step in acknowledging the rights and interests of a group of people who have lived on and tended the land for thousands of years.”
