Historic MOU and land use agreement between Town of Port Hedland and Kariyarra Aboriginal Corporation

The Town of Port Hedland council has voted unanimously to enter into a memorandum of understanding and land use agreement with the Kariyarra Aboriginal Corporation. The MOU sets out a voluntary Indigenous land use agreement for future capital works of Kariyarra Native Title land rather than proceeding through Native Title litigation. This will provide opportunities and benefits for the Kariyarra community from the Town’s future municipal works, as well as cultural heritage, employment, social and recreational opportunities and conservation of heritage sites. KAC will also receive administration and management support from the Town for the procurement, design and construction of its developments. During a deputation to council on February 23, KAC chief executive Nic Green said the corporation saw an Indigenous land use agreement as an “incredible chance to try and get it right.” “The Karriyara people entered into an agreement with the State Government in 2017, which has delivered very little,” he said. “We see this as a recipe for a good relationship for between the Town, business and the Kariyarra people.” Town of Port Hedland mayor Peter Carter welcomed the council’s decision and said it would be the foundation of a strong and lasting relationship between the parties. “The MOU represents a significant step in recognition of the Kariyarra community as the traditional owners of land within the Town of Port Hedland,” he said. Mr Green said the MOU was a historic moment. “This is the first time the Town of Port Hedland has entered into an MOU of this kind,” he said. “We welcome this opportunity to work in partnership with the Town on activities and initiative which will benefit the community.” The council also voted to enter into its first land use agreement with KAC, which sets out compensation and non-financial benefits the Kariyarra people are to receive in return for the Town’s development of the Port Hedland Integrated Sports Hub precinct.