15 March, 2010
Rebuilding land rights in the Hunter region
Statement by Geoff Scott, CEO of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council
15 March 2010
The NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) has formally begun the process of rebuilding land rights in the Hunter region following the dissolution on Friday of the Koompahtoo Local Aboriginal Land Council (KLALC).
At this stage, NSWALC is still unaware of the extent and scope of the transfer of assets and liabilities from the dissolution of the former land council. We expect the full picture to come to light over the next few days and weeks.
Our immediate priority is the people directly affected by the dissolution - the six former staff of the land council, and the tenants in its five properties.
The process of establishing a way forward is going to take some months, not weeks.
In that time, we will ensure any assets transferred to NSWALC will be protected for the future benefit of Aboriginal people. Any liabilities that are transferred to NSWALC will be discharged in a way that best minimizes the impact on Aboriginal people across NSW.
We will endeavour to keep people informed of our progress.
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Media contact: Chris Graham 0407 555 328