Native title agreement reached in the Kimberley

• Kimberley native title case finalised

• Gooniyandi people hold native title over traditional land in Fitzroy Valley

• Decision marks the 38th native title determination in WA

Western Australia has continued its impressive record in settling native title cases with today's Gooniyandi native title determination in the Kimberley region.

Attorney General Michael Mischin welcomed the determination by the Federal Court and said the continuing effort by the Liberal National Government placed WA at the forefront of native title in Australia.

Justice John Gilmour handed down the determination at a hearing convened by the Federal Court at the remote Joy Springs community near Fitzroy Crossing

"The determination, which has been made with the consent of all negotiation parties including the State, recognises that the Gooniyandi People hold native title over an area of more than 11,200 square kilometres in the Fitzroy Valley," Mr Mischin said.

"The real challenge for native title holders, industry and local, State and Commonwealth governments, is to address Aboriginal social and economic development."  

"The Government is committed to building sustainable relationships through Indigenous Land Use Agreements, which will provide certainty for all land interests in the post-determination environment."

The Attorney General said native title had now been determined over approximately 940,000 square kilometres of Western Australia.

         Fact File

• There have been 14 native title determinations under the Liberal National Government since 2008

Attorney General's office - 6552 5600