Larrakia Nation have opposed the Territory Co-ordinator’s role

The Territory Co-ordinator’s role is under fire from a Top End TO group.

Nelson Tinoco[sitting in vehicle] and David Kurnoth from Larrakia Nation Aboriginal Corporation that now do day patrols will now run from 5am to 4pm and there will be 5 cars.

Larrakia Nation Aboriginal Corporation wants the NT Government to withdraw the Territory Coordinator Bill.

It also called for the government to recognise Larrakia governance and decision-making authority on Larrakia country.

Former Inpex boss Stuart Knowles was last year appointed interim Territory Coordinator.

The Territory Coordinator Bill is expected to be legislated in the March Legislative Assembly sittings, after what has been a lengthy six-month consultation period.

The Territory Coordinator explanatory document states the agency’s powers may not be used to interfere with agreements between the Commonwealth and NT governments, the protection of sacred sties under the Sacred Sites Act 1989 and heritage places or objects under the Heritage Act 2011.

Interim Territory Coordinator Stuart Knowles.

Additionally, it said the rights of Aboriginal people are protected under the Pastoral Land Act 1992 and the operation of the Aboriginal Land Act 1978, as well as the recognition and protection of native title rights and interests under Territory law.

Larrakia Nation Aboriginal Corporation chief executive Michael Rotumah on Wednesday called on government to “respect” the views of Aboriginal people, to maintain their sovereignty and preserve their culture.

He said the legislation should be withdrawn or amended to ensure proper consultation and engagement with traditional owners.

Northern Territory Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro

He called for the embedding of free, prior, and informed consent principles in all aspects of the bill and to strengthen protection for sacred sites, cultural heritage and the environment.

“The Territory Coordinator Bill threatens to override our ability to make decisions about our own country,” Mr Rotumah said.

“It does not acknowledge Larrakia people as the Traditional Custodians of Darwin, nor does it

ensure their voices are heard when decisions about their land are made.”

Despite the legislative provisions to preserve existing access exclusions on Aboriginal land, Mr Rotumah remained sceptical.

He said the Bill, as currently drafted, would grant broad powers to the Territory Coordinator to fast-track development, raising serious concerns about the protection of sacred sites, cultural

landscapes, and the environment.

He said Larrakia Nation asserts that no development should proceed on Larrakia land without formal agreement from Larrakia people.

Originally published as Larrakia Nation have opposed the Territory Co-ordinator’s role