Daily news digest May 11

Key Indigenous news stories for May 11 feature significant developments in renewable energy partnerships, high-stakes legal rulings on compensation, and national calls for increased protection of First Nations women and children.

Corporate & Legal Developments

Major Solar Deal with Rio Tinto:
Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation (YEC) signed a significant 30-year power purchase agreement with Rio Tinto. YEC, a majority-owned venture of ACEN and the Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation, plans to develop up to 3GW of renewable capacity in the Pilbara.

Forrest Compensation Ruling:
The Federal Court is scheduled to deliver a historic ruling regarding the amount of compensation mining magnate Andrew Forrest and Fortescue owe the Yindjibarndi people for mining on their traditional land.

Social Justice & Policy

National Safety Call:
Advocates are calling for an urgent national response to address the protection of Indigenous women and children.

Detainee Inquiry Refusal:
The ACT Government has formally refused to hold an independent inquiry into the treatment of First Nations detainees at the police watch house.

Indigenous Education Initiative:
The University of Melbourne highlighted the ongoing impact of Ngarrngga, a nation-building project led by First Nations educators to integrate Indigenous knowledge into the national curriculum.

Community & Arts

Prisoner Art Exhibition:
The The Torch’s “Confined 17” exhibition is showcasing the work of incarcerated First Nations artists, highlighting personal stories of healing through creativity.

Advocacy for Disability Rights:
First Nations Victorians with a disability are using the “Being Deadly” advocacy group to share their stories and call for an end to systemic racism and judgment.