Aboriginal Lands Trust chairperson appointed

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Peter Collier has announced the appointment of Shane Hamilton as the new chairperson of the Aboriginal Lands Trust (ALT).

  • Shane Hamilton is the new Aboriginal Lands Trust chairperson

  • The ALT is a significant landholder with responsibility for approximately 24 million hectares or 10% of the State's land mass

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Peter Collier has announced the appointment of Shane Hamilton as the new chairperson of the Aboriginal Lands Trust (ALT).

"The ALT is a significant landholder with responsibility for approximately 10 per cent of the State's land mass," Mr Collier said.

"The ALT, through its board and the chairperson, are charged with the management of the ALT estate for the benefit of Aboriginal people across the State, and provide a committed, strong and independent voice on issues of importance.

"Mr Hamilton is eminently qualified to act as the chairperson of the ALT.  He has extensive experience in the Aboriginal housing areas, having filled senior positions within Government often working in conjunction with the Aboriginal Lands Trust for the release of land for construction of housing in remote communities.

"He is currently the State Manager for Community Housing Limited, a not-for-profit organisation that manages over 400 properties across WA including the East Kimberley, Mid-West, Goldfields and Perth metropolitan areas.

"The ALT has a clear mandate to better utilise the Aboriginal Lands Trust estate to achieve economic outcomes for Aboriginal people.  This includes continuing work towards land divestment, the transfer of land to Aboriginal organisations to build their capacity and secure an economic return from assets.

"Some of this work has already taken place, including the transfer of 180 hectares located at Bidan, midway between Broome and Derby, to the Bidan Aboriginal Corporation.  I would like to acknowledge the outgoing chairperson, Clinton Wolf, and the outgoing members of the ALT board for their efforts in getting the divestment strategy under way.

"I look forward to working alongside Shane and the newly appointed members throughout their term."

Fact File

  • Shane Hamilton is also the current chairperson of the Community Housing Coalition of Western Australia

  • The Aboriginal Lands Trust is comprised of seven Aboriginal people

  • For more information on the ALT and its members, visit the Department of Aboriginal Affairs website at http://www.daa.wa.gov.au

Minister's office - 6552 6300