Patrick Gorman (Perth, Australian Labor Party, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

I agree; it was a brilliant contribution from the member for Moreton. He also talked about recognising history. This bill is about recognising history and what was here long before any of us came into this place—long, long before. He talked about the importance of the traditional owners, recognising that, while this is about them having custody of that land, they see themselves as belonging to the land. Again, I thank him for talking about the extensive consultations and also the benefits for community development that this bill will enable.

The government remains committed to progressing unresolved land claims in the Northern Territory. It's all part of our determination to increase First Nations land rights and their interests in land, sea and country when it comes to meeting the National Partnership Agreement on Closing the Gap. This recognises the many social, economic and cultural benefits that can only be achieved from land ownership and continuing connection to country.

I acknowledge that for the traditional owners this land has significant emu dreaming associations and many other dreamings. I'd like to thank the traditional owners, the Central Land Council, and the Northern Territory government for their work in finalising the Indigenous land use agreement that supports this bill. This bill paves the way for finalisation of the longstanding Aboriginal land claim. I commend the bill to the Chamber.

Question agreed to.

Bill read a second time.

Ordered that this bill be reported to the House without amendment.

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