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The NLC backs Larrakia on independent inquiry into Binybara (Lee Point)
The Northern Land Council (NLC) denounces Federal Environment Minister’s decision to not protect Binybara (Lee Point), and supports Larrakia Traditional Owners’ call for an independent inquiry into unlawful land clearing.
The NLC is disappointed by Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek’s refusal to use her power to stop the Defence Housing Australia (DHA) development at Binybara. The Minister has not recognised the region as being a culturally significant area for Larrakia people.
In the last few weeks, the NLC has been alarmed to hear that there have been allegations of unlawful land clearing at Lee Point by DHA.
The NLC commends the decision by DHA to halt any future land clearing while it undertakes an investigation. However, any investigation must be thorough and transparent, and therefore the NLC supports the call for an independent inquiry into Binybara. This process would provide the level of scrutiny and accountability that is required for this culturally rich part of Darwin.
In November 2023 and February 2024, the NLC provided submissions in support of Kevin ‘Tibby’ Quall’s application to protect a specified area of Binybara under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984 (Cth).
In March, the Environment Minister made her decision to not make a declaration under the Act, meaning Mr Quall’s application, did not succeed and Defence Housing Australia’s housing development could proceed.
Despite outcry from Larrakia peoples and widespread protest by the wider community, initial land clearing works occurred from April 30 to May 10, 2024.
Quotes attributable to Matthew Ryan, Chair of the NLC:
- The decision that Minister Plibersek made over Binybara is upsetting. The Larrakia deserve better in 2024. Our politicians need to listen to their voice.
- DHA’s stopping works to allow for their own investigation does not go far enough. Our Council believes there needs to be a good look into the land clearing, and this needs to be one that everyone can trust.
- The governments need to learn from the mistakes. It’s clear that better consultation with Traditional Owners needs to happen before, not after, the damage is done.
