17-year native title claim over land in northern New South Wales has been finalised today with the Federal Court recognising native title on Yaegl country.

Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Nigel Scullion, said the recognition covers places such as Maclean, Yamba and Iluka.

“The first claim for this land was lodged in 1998 and then a second claim in 2011,” Minister Scullion said.

“The determinations, made by Her Honour Justice Jagot in Yamba today, recognise native title for the Yaegl people,” Minister Scullion said.

“This will ensure the Yaegl people can continue their long-held relationship with the land and water as well as obtaining the economic benefits that native title brings.

“It’s a further example of how different levels of government are working together with First Australians to secure rights to land.”

The claims were resolved after all parties to the claims, including the State Government and Clarence Valley Council, reached an agreement.  

“These two determinations bring to a close 17 years of contesting the disputed land,” Minister Scullion said.

“It is now more than 20 years since the Native Title Act became law and this is an excellent example of how it can operate to provide economic independence and opportunity through native title.”

Today’s determination is the second this month and follows the historic Barkindji consent determination in western New South Wales which was handed down on June 16.