Native title determination in the central desert

The Federal Court today handed down the determination which recognises that the Pilki people hold native title rights over about 17,886 square kilometres of land in the Great Victoria Desert.

The determination was held at Pilki Dam via the Tjuntjuntjara community, east of Kalgoorlie-Boulder.

Attorney General Michael Mischin said all parties, including the Western Australian Government and the Shire of Menzies, agreed that exclusive possession of native title rights and interests could be recognised in the determination area.

Mr Mischin said clarification was sought from the Federal Court regarding the right of the native title holders to take and use resources for any purpose in the claim area.   

The Attorney General congratulated the Pilki people on their achievement and said there had been a significant increase over the past two years in the number of native title determinations in WA.

"Today marks the 46th native title determination in the State and the 13th in the central desert region," he said.

"WA continues to lead the country in the recognition of native title rights, with native title now being determined over more than one million square kilometres of the State.

"The State Government hopes to build an enduring relationship with the Pilki people, particularly in relation to land management in the determination area."

The determination recognises the exclusive possession of native title rights and interests, including the right of the native title holders to take and use resources for any purpose in the claim area. 

The State Government will be appealing the decision that the Pilki people have the right to take and use resources for any purpose.

Attorney General's office - 6552 5600