4 June, 2026
There was an article published this afternoon regarding NSWALC’s position on Closing the Gap.
Since the introduction of the Crown Lands Management Amendment Bill (Statutory Review) 2026 in March, the Council have been actively considering its participation in shared decision-making forums with the NSW Government. Next week, Council will meet to determine our position regarding future participation in these forums.
RESPONSE
In a statement to the media this afternoon, NSWALC CEO, Clare McHugh, said:
Due to the discriminatory elements of the Bill and the lack of shared decision-making leading up to its introduction, we are considering our future participation in shared decision-making forums with the NSW Government, including Closing the Gap.
As a founding member of the NSW Coalition of Aboriginal Peak Organisations (CAPO), NSWALC will always remain a committed member of NSW CAPO. We support the ongoing role of NSW CAPO as a united Aboriginal voice advocating for structural reform, Aboriginal rights and self-determination in NSW.
The NSW Government’s approach to this Bill has reinforced our longstanding concerns. Aboriginal people have no level of involvement in decisions affecting Aboriginal peoples and the recognition of Aboriginal rights and interests. This cannot continue.
The Bill seeks to restrict Aboriginal access to Crown Land and opportunities across the State, effectively hollowing out the compensatory and good intent of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act.
The Bill has progressed without genuine partnership or shared decision-making, despite the substantial concerns raised by Aboriginal peoples, NSWALC and the NSW Aboriginal Land Rights Network.
This approach undertaken by the NSW Government is inconsistent with the Closing the Gap Priority Reforms, which require our governments to strengthen shared decision-making, support the community-controlled sector and transform government institutions.
STATUS
NSWALC remains deeply concerned and opposed to the Crown Lands Management Amendment Bill 2026. The Bill seeks to restrict Aboriginal access to Crown land and opportunities across the State, effectively hollowing out the intent and purpose of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act.
Despite substantial concerns raised by NSWALC, the NSW Aboriginal Land Rights Network and the wider community, the Bill has progressed without genuine partnership or shared decision-making.
The Network has provided clear direction to NSWALC to oppose the Bill. The concerns raised by Aboriginal Communities have consistently highlighted the need for meaningful consultation and respect for Aboriginal rights and interests.
NSWALC will continue to communicate with the Network as soon as a decision is made and updates are ready to be provided.
Together we stand, divided we fall.