Whole of Government Approach to Native Title
The Western Australian Government is enhancing the whole-of-government approach to native title processes and negotiations. The whole-of-government approach will:
- increase consistency in policy, work practices and expenditure
- reduce duplication between Government agencies
- increase public sector accountability and effectiveness.
The Government is committed to resolving native title through negotiation and agreement. In 2011 the Government Indigenous Land Use Agreement (Government ILUA) was introduced into the mediation of native title claims. The Government ILUA seeks to balance all interests and provides native title holders with expanded opportunities.
Learn more about the Government ILUA by reading the Guide to the Government Indigenous Land Use Agreement and Standard Heritage Agreements - June 2012 - Version 1.2 (PDF 120KB).
Reference Group on Native Title and Aboriginal Heritage
As part of the whole-of-government approach the Department of the Premier and Cabinet (DPC) and the Department of Indigenous Affairs (DIA) sponsor the Inter-Agency Reference Group on Native Title and Aboriginal Heritage.
The terms of reference are to:
- provide a central point of reference for State Government agencies involved in native title and Aboriginal cultural heritage management
- provide support to State Government agencies involved in native title and Aboriginal cultural heritage management
- promote consistency across Government in meeting obligations under the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) and the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 (WA)
- identify efficiencies for the Government in native title and heritage processes
- assist relevant skills development and information sharing across Government.
The Reference Group have produced several practical guides and template documents for use within Government including the:
Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Protocol – Pilot Program
In early 2012 the Western Australian Government, in partnership with the South West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council (SWALSC), commenced a pilot program for commissioning Aboriginal heritage surveys in the metropolitan area by selected Government agencies.
The Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Protocol (Protocol) is designed to improve the integrity of particular heritage practices in the Perth metropolitan area by applying a consistent and balanced approach to Government engagement when commissioning Aboriginal heritage surveys. The Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Protocol includes a five-step process for agencies to follow.
Read the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Protocol (PDF 205KB).
The Protocol has recently been extended and will run until the 30 June 2013. For any questions about the Protocol please contact the Native Title Unit.
For general information about other land approval obligations visit the Department of State Development website for an overview of land approvals processes for significant projects.
Further Information
The Native Title Unit provides leadership and advice on native title and related issues. State Government agencies and officers are encouraged to contact us about native title policy, processes and information.