Land Rights Act key for Mirarr traditional owners

NLC Chairman Samuel Bush-Blanasi said the passage of the Jabiru Bill and the finalisation of the Jabiru township lease will pave the way for a Mirarr entity to implement long term tenure arrangements for residents and businesses at Jabiru.

“I congratulate traditional owner Yvonne Margarula and the Mirarr people on this historic day. The Mirarr mob have waited a long time to have their rights recognised and that is what the Federal Government has done today,” he said.

“The NLC thanks the Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt, for supporting legislation that fosters economic empowerment and gives Aboriginal people more control on how their land is developed.

“The NLC’s Full Council will soon consider the proposed Jabiru township lease and the economic and community development opportunities it will generate for the Mirarr people and wider community.

“We look forward to working with the present and future Mirarr traditional owners as Jabiru transforms from a mining town to a regional service centre and sustainable tourism hub.”

NLC CEO Marion Scrymgour recognised the Federal and the Northern Territory Government’s substantial financial commitments to the Jabiru revitalisation plan and ensuring Kakadu National Park retains its status as a premier tourist attraction.

 “Jabiru now has the opportunity to refocus from a mining town to an Aboriginal-led tourism and economic service centre for Kakadu National Park and the West Arnhem Region,” she said.

“The NLC looks forward to working with Jabiru Kabolkmakmen Ltd, the Mirarr people and other local agencies to set the economic future of the township.”