Daily news digest July 24
Indigenous news today spans major milestones in land protection and corporate-sector transitions, alongside ongoing court actions and policy debates.
Conservation Milestone:
The official dedication of the Simpson Desert Indigenous Protected Area added over 4.7 million hectares to the National Reserve System, elevating Australia’s total protected land to 25 per cent.
Leadership Appointments:
Central Arrernte woman Ebony Abbott-McCormack, main picture, has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Central Australian Aboriginal Congress. She brings 15 years of governance experience to lead the 50-year-old community-controlled health organisation
Environmental & Heritage Challenges:
The Federal Court is reviewing a challenge to extend Woodside’s North West Shelf project, with groups citing risks to nearby Indigenous heritage sites. Environment Minister Murray Watt also approved a dredging project for a sand mine near Wyndham in the Cambridge Gulf.
Perth Bridge Deadlock Resolved:
Infrastructure plans for one of Western Australia’s longest bridges will finally progress. The decision resolves a four-year deadlock sparked by concerns that construction would damage an ancient rock shelter and traditional billabong.
Garma Festival Coverage:
The NITV News and Current Affairs Team has announced its live coverage and broadcasting lineup for the upcoming Garma Festival. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has defended his schedule changes and historic visit to the Tiwi Islands ahead of the event.
Racism Inquiry Expands:
The Federal inquiry into online and systemic racism targeting First Nations communities is moving its upcoming regional hearings to Brisbane, Cairns, and the Torres Strait.
