Rod Kemp (Victoria, Liberal Party, Minister for the Arts and Sport) Share this | Hansard source

The decision, as I mentioned, was announced almost one year ago—I think I said November 2006 in my earlier remarks but of course I meant November 2005—so the government’s attitude on this matter has been known for a comparatively long period of time. My advice is that the land in question was claimed at the last minute, in 1997, when the sunset clause on claims took effect. I think it was regarded as an ambit claim. I should repeat that the government is of the view that these are not appropriate to grant. I think I am right in saying that this was the view of successive ministers and, obviously, it is also the view of the current minister.

On the procedural fairness issue, I draw Senator Evans’s attention to the fact that the decision was announced almost one year ago, so people should have been aware of this. I am looking anxiously at my advisers to see whether they know, but I think that is the case. Certainly the land councils were aware, as their representatives. I hope that gives you some comfort, Senator Evans.