Native Title Recognition Advances Across Cape York

Eastern Kuku Yalanji and Western Yalanji people have secured native title recognition over more than 388,000 hectares, strengthening their rights to Country in Australia.

“Native Title means that our people can go back on Country, live on Country and continue to teach our younger generations how important our Country and culture are,” said Eastern Kuku Yalanji Elder Carol Pierce.

The two Federal Court determinations cover 217,884 hectares of Eastern Kuku Yalanji Country and 170,827 hectares of Western Yalanji Country, bringing the Cape York United #1 claim to 91% completion. They recognise a mix of exclusive and non-exclusive rights, including access, hunting, fishing, gathering resources, protecting significant places and conducting ceremonies. The Eastern Kuku Yalanji determination united more than 100 ancestral lines. At the same time, both decisions advance a decades-long effort to strengthen cultural continuity, care for Country and give Traditional Owners a greater say in their communities’ futures.