The Western Australian government has announced a targeted review of Native Title and Aboriginal cultural heritage processes within the mining and exploration sector, aiming to improve outcomes for both Traditional Owners and industry stakeholders.
The review, set to commence next month and run for four months, will be conducted in partnership with the National Native Title Tribunal and focus on the efficiency, effectiveness, and equity of existing processes under current legislation.
The scope of the review will specifically examine the interaction of consultation processes, the capacity of stakeholders to participate, and the extent to which these processes deliver social, economic, and community benefits.
It will also consider how these frameworks contribute to Western Australia’s commitments under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.
Importantly, the review will not consider any legislative amendments, but will instead identify practical options for improvement within the existing legal framework.
WA Premier Roger Cook noted the significance of Native Title in Western Australia: “Native Title is a major feature of the social, cultural and economic landscape in Western Australia, with more than 90 per cent of the State subject to a Native Title outcome.”
He added: “This targeted review is a timely and important opportunity to strengthen the way we manage Aboriginal cultural heritage in WA and find better ways to navigate statutory consultation processes in the mining and exploration sector, under the current legislative frameworks.”
The review process will include a series of on-Country meetings, targeted roundtables, and workshops to ensure broad and meaningful engagement with stakeholders.
Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch highlighted the government’s commitment, stating that working alongside the National Native Title Tribunal will ensure consultations are targeted and focused on meaningful outcomes for all stakeholders.
National Native Title Tribunal President Kevin Smith welcomed the partnership, saying the Tribunal looks forward to supporting the State Government in conducting focused consultations to enhance the protection and management of cultural heritage.
A final report is expected to be delivered to the state government by the end of the year. Further details, including the review’s terms of reference, can be found here.