Two Native Title Claims Cover Limestone Coast, Costing Ratepayers
Native Title claims across the entire South East region have already cost Naracoorte Lucindale Council nearly $19,000, with other councils in the Limestone Coast facing similar expenses.
Claims cover the entire region:
- Two separate claims encompass the entire Limestone Coast region, including all seven council areas.
- One claim covers the entire South East, while the other overlaps it with an additional northern section.
Financial impact:
- Naracoorte Lucindale Council has spent $18,838.65 on legal fees related to the claims so far.
- Similar amounts are being paid by other Limestone Coast councils through joint representation.
Uncertainties abound:
- The potential impact of the claims on land tenure, including Crown land and council-owned land, is unknown at this stage.
- While privately owned freehold land is likely unaffected, the implications for Crown land remain unclear.
Discovery phase underway:
- The claims are currently in a “discovery” phase, where information on all Crown land under council care is being assessed to determine any potential native title rights.
- This involves examining past use, development, and leases to see if native title has been extinguished.
Council actively involved:
- Naracoorte Lucindale Council is officially a party to the claim, allowing them to stay informed and participate in matters affecting Crown land under their control.
- Legal representation for all seven Limestone Coast councils is being handled collectively by Norman Waterhouse lawyers.
Key points:
- Extensive Native Title claims across the Limestone Coast are raising concerns and costing councils money.
- The potential impact on land ownership is still uncertain, particularly for Crown land.
- Councils are actively involved in the process to protect their interests and those of the community.
Remember:
- This rewrite uses Australian English and focuses on the key points for residents and ratepayers.
- It clarifies the extent of the claims, the financial implications, and the current stage of the process.
- Technical legal details are simplified for better understanding.
