The NLC announces suspension of all permits to enter Aboriginal land for non-essential travel
Date: Mar 14, 2020
Publication Type: Media Releases
At its meeting on 14 March 2020 the NLC Executive Council determined that all existing non-essential permits will be suspended and no new non-essential travel permits will be granted until further notice.
NLC CEO Marion Scrymgour said: “The NLC has received many calls from community members asking that we do all we can to ensure the safety and protection of Aboriginal people in their communities who are very concerned about the spread of COVID-19.”
“To be clear, this decision will not affect the permits issued to those people - the doctors, nurses, teachers, police officers, council workers and others – that provide essential services for Aboriginal people out bush,” said Ms Scrymgour.
The NLC Executive Council has further directed the NLC CEO to raise with the Commonwealth the concerns held by the traditional Aboriginal owners of the Kakadu National Park about continuing park access arrangements.
Any queries as to whether particular work or travel is non-essential should be directed to the NLC on (08) 8920 5100.
ENDS