Kimberley Land Council celebrates 40 years of advocacy

• Kimberley Land Council celebrates 40 year anniversary
• More than 70 per cent of the Kimberley is covered by determined native title rights 

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt has today congratulated the Kimberley Land Council (KLC) on the 40th anniversary of its establishment.

The KLC was originally formed at a meeting of Kimberley Aboriginal people at Noonkanbah station, and has played a significant role at both the State and national level to ensure that Aboriginal traditional land ownership rights are recognised.

More than 70 per cent of the Kimberley region is now covered by a native title determination; a testament to the hard work and leadership of the KLC. It reflects the relationship that the organisation has developed with traditional owner groups throughout the Kimberley over a long period.

People from across the Kimberley and the State will travel to the Ngumpan community, just outside Fitzroy Crossing, to take part in a three-day celebration this week.

Comments attributed to Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt:

"For the past 40 years, the KLC has been at the forefront of advocacy and implementation of measures that recognise and support Aboriginal people's rights and interests. Its work has shaped the modern Kimberley, and the political influence of the KLC's tireless work has been felt well outside this region.

"The State Government looks forward to a continued constructive relationship with the KLC as we work in partnership to deal with the challenges and opportunities in the post native title determination era."

Minister's office - 6552 5900