Aboriginal Engagement and Native Title

The Aboriginal Engagement and Native Title division leads whole-of-Government efforts to elevate the Aboriginal Affairs portfolio, advance Native Title outcomes and drive systemic change. Its focus is to improve the economic prosperity, cultural wellbeing and long-term opportunities of Aboriginal people and communities across Western Australia.

Functions

Strategic Partnerships and Engagement 

• The Strategic Partnerships and Engagement team builds strong, collaborative relationships with Aboriginal communities, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, industry, and government agencies to support shared priorities and culturally informed decision‑making. It drives engagement approaches that strengthen trust, empower Aboriginal voices, and enable effective partnership‑led outcomes. The team, in partnership with WA’s Coalition of Peaks partners and the Aboriginal Council of WA, are working to ensure that WA’s unique needs and priorities are aligned to the National response to Closing the Gap.

Native Title Negotiations and Advisory  

• The Native Title Negotiations and Advisory team leads complex Native Title negotiations that seek to recognise Native Title, settle compensation claims and facilitate State Significant projects. The team works across government to build capability and drive best practice in Native Title agreement-making, and provides expert advice to government on Native Title, land access and responses to litigation. It works to achieve fair and durable outcomes that respect Native Title rights and promote partnerships with Traditional Owners while supporting sustainable development and government priorities.

Strategic Policy and Coordination 

• The Strategic Policy and Coordination team develops and coordinates whole‑of‑Government policies and responses to ensure delivery of the best possible outcomes for Aboriginal people as committed by the WA Government through the National Agreement on Closing the Gap and native title agreements and settlements. The team also provides strategic leadership across Government to improve the social, cultural, and economic wellbeing of Aboriginal people throughout Western Australia, in partnership with Aboriginal people.