$38m native title deal for Hedland

The state government and the Kariyarra people have signed an agreement that will enable existing and future expansion of Port Hedland's port and development of residential land in South Hedland. 

The agreement will deliver land and monetary benefits worth an estimated $38 million to the Kariyarra people, while addressing native title over specific areas within their claim.

The benefits include the transfer of several urban and rural lots in freehold, including several with refurbished houses and units, along with reserved use and direct management of various Crown land parcels of significance to the Kariyarra people, and the recognition and protection of heritage sites.

The monetary benefits will be n the form of a five per cent payment on residential, commercial and industrial lots developed on Crown land within an agreed area of South Hedland, irrespective of who develops them.

The agreement comes after six years of negotiations between the Kariyarra people, their legal representatives – the Yamatji Marlpa Aboriginal Corporation (YMAC) – and government agencies.

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt said the agreement will see significant areas of freehold land controlled by the local traditional owners, and provide opportunities for self-determined economic activity for the Kariyarra people.

“Fostering economic activities in our regional and remote communities is the only way we will secure lasting change and improved outcomes for Aboriginal people.”