- First land transfers under landmark Yamatji Nation Indigenous Land Use Agreement
- Transfers mark formal creation of the Yamatji Land Estate
- Return of land to Traditional Owners supports long-term Yamatji Nation social, cultural and economic aspirations
The Cook Government and the Yamatji Nation have finalised the transfer of the first 10 reserves to Bundi Yamatji Aboriginal Corporation, initiating the delivery of up to 149,090 hectares for the Yamatji Land Estate.
Covering approximately 48,000 square kilometres of land in the State's Mid West region, the Yamatji Nation Indigenous Land Use Agreement resolves the Western Australian Government's compensation liability for the impairment and/or extinguishment of native title in the agreement area and includes a package of benefits for the Yamatji people, totalling approximately $500 million.
The transfers mark the formal creation of the Yamatji Land Estate agreed through the landmark Yamatji Nation Indigenous Land Use Agreement executed in 2020.
The Yamatji Land Estate will be drawn from the Crown land estate and eight Aboriginal Lands Trust properties in the Geraldton area. It will establish the Yamatji people as one of the largest landholders in the Mid-West and provide a diverse asset base through which to build self-determination and long-term economic independence for Aboriginal people in the region.
As stated by Lands Minister John Carey:
"This is an important first step in delivering on a key commitment of the Yamatji Nation Indigenous Land Use Agreement.
"The Cook Government recognises this historic return of land to Traditional Owners and remains committed to working with Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation and the landholding bodies to deliver the Yamatji Land Estate."
As stated by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Dr Tony Buti:
"This significant land transfer is the result of the diligent resolve of the Yamatji people and their strong and enduring connection to Country.
"It will serve as a catalyst for realising the social, cultural and economic prospects of Yamatji land to its highest potential."
As stated by YSRC Acting CEO Luka Gray:
"As Acting CEO of YSRC, I am thrilled to see the first 10 reserves approved for transfer under the Yamatji Nation ILUA.
"This marks a pivotal moment for our people in securing our ancestral lands and paving the way for future generations of Yamatji people to thrive economically and culturally in the Mid West."
As stated by BYAC Chair Ross Councillor:
"The significance of these land transfers cannot be overstated. They represent a significant stride towards self-governance and empowerment for Yamatji people.
"BYAC is dedicated to leveraging these resources responsibly to foster a prosperous and culturally vibrant future for our community in the Mid West."
