Land council yet to decide on land claim site use
Posted
The Wagga Wagga Local Aboriginal Land Council is yet to decide what it will do with the site at the centre of a successful land claim.
The New South Wales Government fought the land claim on the old Wagga Motor Registry office, in southern NSW, citing the impact on its Crown land asset disposal program.
It argued the land was being lawfully used as it was being prepared for sale, but the High Court yesterday dismissed its appeal.
The Wagga Land Council's deputy chairwoman, Justine Everaardt, says it is an exciting outcome.
"We're looking forward to communicating with members and having members' involvement into what we'll actually do with the building," she said.
"We're in the middle of developing our community land and business plan and also that incorporates members' feedback and input, so hopefully by the end of the year we'll have more of a direction."
The NSW Aboriginal Land Council chairwoman Bev Manton says the High Court ruling will clear the way for several other claims.
"Fairness has prevailed and we are now as average people of this state the owners of that land and we'll continue to implement the Land Rights Act and claim on behalf of the Aboriginal people of this state," she said.
Lands Minister Tony Kelly has also welcomed the court ruling.
A spokeswoman says the decision gives a clearer understanding of the principles around disposing of surplus government property.
A spokeswoman says the Minister will consult the director-general of the Department of Lands to ensure policies and procedures reflect the decision.
