State welcomes Federal Court decision on Swan Valley camp

13/4/07
The State Government's decision to close the Swan Valley Nyungah community has been vindicated by a Federal Court decision which dismissed a claim by former community members.
The decision handed down today found there was no basis for the former community members' claims that the Reserves Act 2003 was in breach of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975.
The State Government closed the camp in 2003 amid growing concern over the safety of women and children living at the Lockridge Reserve.
Indigenous Affairs Minister Michelle Roberts said the decision to close the camp was never about race.
"Closing the camp was the only way to bring to an end the violence, fear and intimidation that had become entrenched in the community," Mrs Roberts said.
"This camp was a blight on the community - regardless of it being indigenous or non-indigenous, it deserved to be closed."
The Federal Court decision frees the way for the State Government to continue with its plan to convert the camp into an environmental park, a recommendation made in late 2003 after extensive consultation with the Nyungah community.
The Minister said the park plan would be developed to respect Aboriginal heritage and culture, as well as to complement existing environmental recreational facilities nearby, at Whiteman Park and Bennett Brook.
A visitors' centre, an arts and crafts centre, and parkland developed with guidance from an Aboriginal Custodian Committee, are proposed for the environmental park.
The Government's priority has always been that the site remains a place for the use and benefit of Aboriginal people.
Minister's office: 9213 6600