24 April, 2026
On 17 March 2026, the NSW Government introduced the Crown Land Management Amendment (Statutory Review) Bill 2026 into Parliament.
Despite being described as “minor” or “procedural,” this Bill has serious implications for Aboriginal land rights in New South Wales. It risks undermining the operation of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 (ALRA), particularly in relation to the assessment and determination of Aboriginal Land Claims.
The Government has now paused the Bill for consultation following strong opposition. However, there are real concerns that this process may not lead to meaningful change and could be used to push through reforms that weaken land rights.
The New South Wales Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) maintains that the Bill, in its current form, threatens the integrity of the land rights system and could impact tens of thousands of undetermined land claims across the state.
NSWALC is calling on all Local Aboriginal Land Councils, members, communities and supporters to stand together and make it clear that any changes to Crown land laws must strengthen, not undermine, Aboriginal land rights.
Aboriginal Land Rights Protest
Where: Meet at the northern end of Hyde Park near the Archibald Fountain
When: 11:30 am Wednesday, 6 May 2026
Reimbursement of Local Aboriginal Land Councils
Local Aboriginal Land Councils will be reimbursed for travel costs up to $2500 per LALC for attendance at the protest. LALC CEOs will need to provide written confirmation of LALC attendance at the protest to seek reimbursement and provide NSWALC with an invoice. Please send written confirmation and invoices to crownlandsbill@alc.org.au.
NSWALC’s position on the Bill:
- NSWALC strongly opposes the Bill in its current form – the Bill risks undermining the objects and intent of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983.
- It may change how land claims are assessed in a way that disadvantages Aboriginal Land Councils, including in relation to the “not lawfully used or occupied” test.
- There are serious concerns about retrospective elements that could impact existing, undetermined land claims.
- The Bill lacks transparency, including insufficient detail in the Statement of Impact.
- It creates uncertainty and risks weakening established legal pathways for land return.
- Independent voices, including the Law Society of New South Wales, have raised concerns about its potential consequences.
- NSWALC is calling for genuine consultation and co-design of any reforms affecting Aboriginal land rights.
Take action
Attend the protest and contact your local Member of Parliament (MP) and Members of the Legislative Council (MLCs). Make it clear that Aboriginal land rights must be protected and strengthened, not wound back.
| Please contact NSWALC on 9689 4444 or policy@alc.org.au if you would like to discuss the Bill, the protest, or NSWALC’s position. |