17 January, 2025

The NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) has welcomed the NSW Government’s rezoning plans for Parramatta North and the important role Deerubbin Local Aboriginal Land Council will play in the process.

“We welcome the inclusion of land owned by Deerubbin LALC within the proposed 42-hectare site in Parramatta North, comprising almost 10% of the precinct,’’ NSWALC Chairperson Councillor Raymond Kelly said. “Deerubbin LALC is a key player in Western Sydney and we support the NSW Government’s approach to work with Deerubbin LALC to ensure the proposal reflects the aspirations of the LALC.’’

It is essential our Land Rights Network can unlock and activate the benefits of our land, which is especially relevant given the current housing crisis, Cr Kelly said.

“NSWALC and our 121 LALCs across the State look forward to continued collaboration with the NSW Government to secure outcomes for Aboriginal people in NSW and the broader community,’’ he said.

“The collaborative approach with Deerubbin LALC by the NSW Government is a template for how government, local councils and third parties should be working with Aboriginal people across Australia”.

Cr Kelly, who represents the NSWALC Sydney/Newcastle Region which includes Deerubbin LALC, also pointed to the recent Sandhills announcement in Byron Bay as another example of where land negotiations with various stakeholders can lead to exciting new opportunities for all parties.