Traditional owners in north-west Victoria have achieved a historic native title victory after more than two decades of legal struggle. The Federal Court on Friday granted exclusive native title rights to the First Nations peoples of the Millewa-Mallee, comprising the Latji Latji, Ngintait and Nyeri Nyeri groups, marking the first such recognition in the state.
Exclusive native title allows these communities to control access to their ancestral lands under traditional law and customs. The determination covers thousands of square kilometres, including the city of Mildura and extending through the Murray-Sunset National Park to the South Australia border.
Shane Jones Senior, a Latji Latji man and lead applicant, expressed pride in the outcome. 'Alongside all First Peoples of the Millewa-Mallee, including the Ngintait and Nyeri Nyeri peoples, we continue to live our culture,' he said. 'With native title, our present and future generations can continue the legacy of all our elders and emerging elders.'
The decision sets a precedent that may support other native title holders in seeking similar recognition. In addition to exclusive rights, the determination includes non-exclusive rights such as accessing land, using resources, and protecting culturally significant sites.
Nyeri Nyeri elder Wendy Brabham reflected on the long journey, noting the group had sought recognition for over 25 years. 'I hear the voices of our Nyeri Nyeri ancestors, I hear the voices of our present generations. They weathered the storm; we are still weathering the storm,' she said. Brabham hopes future generations will build on the court's decision to honour ancestors by strengthening and sharing their culture.
