Aboriginal land claims

Aboriginal land councils can lodge claims for the return of Crown land under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983. The act recognises Aboriginal people as the traditional owners and custodians of the land in NSW. After European settlement, the government took ownership of the land, creating freehold property rights for settlers. The remaining land became Crown land, held in public trust, and used for community infrastructure like halls, roads, parks, and sports fields.

Since its introduction, the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 has been amended to allow for greater economic opportunities from land holdings and to enable the sale or disposal of land granted to Aboriginal Land Councils. This system continues to the present day, providing a framework for Aboriginal land rights in NSW.

How Aboriginal land claims are determined

The Aboriginal Land Claims Assessment Team assesses all land claims and facilitates the transfer of land to Aboriginal Land Councils as freehold for successful claims.

What land councils can expect during the land claim process

The Aboriginal land claims – Consolidated Service Charter outlines the customer service commitments Local Aboriginal Land Councils (LALCs) can expect throughout Aboriginal land claim process. 

Learn more about the notable land claims.