What it does
The Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976 establishes Aboriginal Land Trusts to hold estates in fee simple in land for the benefit of Aboriginals entitled by Aboriginal tradition to use or occupation of the land. Part II, sections 4 to 20A, provides for the establishment of Land Trusts by Gazette notice, with each Trust holding title and exercising powers only on directions from the relevant Land Council. The Minister must recommend grants for land in Schedule 1 and for other Crown land following recommendations from Aboriginal Land Commissioners under sections 10, 11, 11(1AD) and 11(1AE). Part IIA, sections 19A to 20SB, authorises Land Trusts to grant township leases to approved entities, with the Executive Director of Township Leasing entering and administering leases and subleases on behalf of the Commonwealth where the Minister agrees to requests.
Part III, sections 21 to 39, creates Aboriginal Land Councils to represent Aboriginal interests in their areas, ascertain and express wishes on land management, protect traditional owners, consult on proposals, negotiate estates or interests, supervise Land Trusts and maintain registers. Part IV, sections 40 to 48J, regulates exploration and mining on Aboriginal land by requiring Land Council consent after consultation, agreements on terms including compensation, and Mining Commissioner arbitration where negotiations fail. National interest Proclamations under section 40(b) or section 48C allow certain activities without consent in specified circumstances.
Part V, sections 49 to 61, establishes Aboriginal Land Commissioners to inquire into traditional land claims under section 50(1)(a) and report on grants. Part VI, sections 62 to 64B, continues the Aboriginals Benefit Account as a special account for crediting royalties and making distributions. Part VIA, sections 65A to 65JE, establishes the Northern Territory Aboriginal Investment Corporation to promote self-management and economic self-sufficiency through payments, investments and financial assistance. Part VII, sections 66 to 78, addresses sacred sites, entry rights, occupation preservation, road exclusions and financial accountability. Schedules 1, 2, 3, 5 and 7 describe specific land areas by coordinates and low-water mark segments.