First Nations groups, along with farmers and miners met on Monday to discuss the federal government’s proposed changes to Australia’s native title laws in a senate inquiry.
The bill aims to reverse a recent Federal Court ruling that effectively allows a single claimant to prevent a land use agreement from being registered.
Among the stakeholders present were spokespeople for the Wangan and Jagalingou (WNJ) Traditional Owners council who are currently fighting against Adani’s Carmichael Coal and Rail project in the Galilee basin.
They argue that an amendment to overturn the McGlade decision could favour companies such as Adani.
Speaking to the Inquiry WNJ traditional owner and spokesperson Murrawah Johnson said that though the Native Title Act needs reform, WNJ is concerned about the timeframe the inquiry was given.
The Senate Committee is due to report on 17 March.
