First Nations Legal and Research Services (FNLRS) believes that self-determination is the key to unlocking social and economic prosperity for First Nations people. We welcome the Joint Standing Committee on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs’ report into improving the economic self-determination for First Nations Australians.
First Nations businesses and people play a significant role in Australia’s economy. The findings of this report confirm this and shows there is more governments can do to foster economic success among First Nations people.
We welcome recommendation 10, which calls for the Federal Government to consider whether a full review of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) is required after the completion of the Australian Law Reform Commission Future Acts Regime Review and recommendation 11, which calls for better funding for Prescribed Bodies Corporates to be able to undertake their statutory functions under the Native Title Act. These recommendations will strengthen the Native Title process and help First Nations communities achieve formal recognition.
Beyond the report’s direct relation to Native Title, recommendations 18 and 22 build on the Federal Government’s positive work developing a First Nations Clean Energy Strategy. The development and implementation of this Strategy is an important aspiration for Traditional Owners across Australia.
This report is another vital step towards achieving the full principles of self-determination. We look forward to supporting the successful implementation of the report’s recommendations and findings.