28 February 2017

NSWALC looking forward to working with new Registrar

The NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) is looking forward to working with the new Registrar of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983, Nicole Courtman.

NSWALC Chair Roy Ah-See said Ms Courtman - who will start her term on 3 April -was well-known to the Land Rights network.

"Ms Courtman was a senior officer at the NSW Aboriginal Land Council and has accumulated more than 15 years' experience in law, governance and management. The departure of outgoing Registrar Stephen Wright created an exciting opportunity for renewal and we look forward to working with Ms Courtman."

Cr Ah-See paid tribute to Stephen Wright for his substantial contribution as Registrar.

"For almost 20 years in the job, Mr Wright was the ultimate professional and upheld the integrity of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983, the most significant piece of legislation for Aboriginal peoples in New South Wales.

"Stephen Wright has been an excellent custodian of the Act and had provided quality advice to the Local Aboriginal Land Councils and the wider Land Rights network.

"As Registrar, Mr Wright performed a critical role in the network, including registering land claims, management of the Register of Aboriginal Owners and assisting Local Aboriginal Land Councils with compliance.

"Mr Wright was first appointed Registrar in 1998 but was heavily involved in the Land Rights network, working at NSWALC between 1990 and 1998.

"Over the last two decades, the role of the Registrar has changed significantly but Stephen Wright was more than a steady hand for Local Aboriginal Land Councils throughout New South Wales.  

"Stephen Wright leaves the office of Registrar as a trusted friend. On behalf of NSWALC, I thank him for his service, dedication and determination to see land returned to Aboriginal peoples."