Native title rights for Nyikina Mangala people

• Ruling covers 26,000sqkm of Kimberley land

• Marks the 45th native title determination in WA

The Nyikina Mangala people have successfully secured native title rights over approximately 26,000 square kilometres of land in the Kimberley.

Attorney General Michael Mischin attended today's determination, which was handed down by the Federal Court at Langey Crossing, south of Derby.

Mr Mischin said the determination was made with the consent of all parties, including the State Government and a number of local pastoralists. 

"I congratulate the Nyikina Mangala people on their achievement.  After more than a decade, Australia's legal system formally recognises the strong connection that they, as the native title holders, have to this land," he said.

"Western Australia continues to lead the country in the recognition of native title rights. There has been a significant increase over the past two years in the number of native title determinations across the State.

"Today marks the 45th native title determination in Western Australia and is one of many recent consent determinations in the Kimberley.

"The State Government looks forward to building an enduring relationship with the Nyikina Mangala Prescribed Body Corporate (PBC), particularly in relation to land management in the determination area.

"It is important for the PBC to have good governance and capability to manage future land use, which will bring economic benefits and ensure a bright future for the Nyikina Mangala people."

The Attorney General said today's determination was the 18th under the Liberal National Government since it came to office in 2008.

        Fact File

• Native title has now been determined over more than one million square kilometres of the State

Minister's office - 6552 5600