Negotiations with the West Australia Government

State Government signs historic framework agreement with SWALSC to negotiate settlement and recognition of the Noongar native title over Perth and the south west of WA

On 17 December 2009 the State Government signed a Heads of Agreement with the South West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council aimed at resolving the six Noongar native title claims over Perth and the south west of WA by negotiation rather than by slow and costly legal action, which has been running in the federal court for 12 years.

The negotiations are expected to take up to two years to complete, and will cover a wide range of issues including recognition of the traditional ownership of Noongar land, a range of health and education programs, and possible joint management of some national parks, as well as other initiatives aimed at strengthening Noongar culture, and community self-determination.

The signing took place at Parliament House and was witnessed by Noongar Elders, SWALSC Directors, and supporters of a negotiated settlement. Chairperson, Greame Miniter, and CEO, Glen Kelly signed on behalf of SWALSC (in its capacity as the Native Title Representative Body representing the traditional owners), and Mr Graham Mischin MP signed for Attorney General, Mr Christian Porter, on behalf of the WA government.