NT Government provides certainty for future of Gove Peninsula

The Northern Territory Government and the North East Arnhem Land-based Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation have reached in-principle agreement on a future land tenure model to secure Nhulunbuy’s future beyond the end of Rio Tinto’s mining operations.

Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the agreement mapped out a pathway to transition Nhulunbuy from its mining-era lease arrangements to a long-term, Traditional Owner-led tenure model that supports an open town, tradeable titles and future investment.

The land tenure agreement secures the Nhulunbuy township once Rio Tinto surrenders their special purposes leases.

“As a sign of how much we are backing in the economic future of this region and its people, my CLP Government has reached an in-principle agreement with Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation on a future land tenure model to secure Nhulunbuy’s future beyond the end of Rio Tinto’s mining operations,” Ms Finocchiaro said.

“We’ve supported Rirratjingu, who have said clearly they want long-term sub-lease arrangements when Rio Tinto concludes operations in 2029 to provide confidence and certainty for home ownership, business investment, lending and finance.

“It will remain Aboriginal land, preserving Traditional Ownership and decision-making authority.

“Traditional Owners will remain central to the town’s future, including through the development of town and land-use plans, agreed review points and involvement in local planning decisions.”

The Government will now work with Northern Land Council to commence the formal implementation of the in-principle agreement.

Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation Chairperson Wanyubi Marika

Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation Chairperson Wanyubi Marika said: “Our Board is encouraged by the progress that has been made on this important part of securing the future of our region.

“We will continue to work with our members, the Northern Land Council, the Northern Territory Government, and others to ensure our culture endures through economic strength and social cohesion.”

Ms Finocchiaro said the in-principle agreement provided much needed certainty for the region and its citizens.

“It is essential to keeping Nhulunbuy as a strong services hub for the region,” she said.

“It will ensure that families and businesses have the certainty to stay here and thrive, with schools, hospitals, the footy oval, and natural amenities maintained, and of course the shops that everyone relies on.”