Commons
Commons differ from Crown reserves and other public land in that they were created for the use of local residents and supported by a commons trust.
Managing a common
Commons were originally set aside in the 19th and 20th centuries so that people who resided within a town had somewhere to graze their stock.
Administration for commons
A commons trust is responsible for the care, control and management of the common in the interests of the commoners.
Commons trust boards
By participating as members of a commons trust board, commoners play an important part in the management and operation of their common.
Acquiring common land
Commons trusts control the land making up the common for the benefit of the commoners and, if authorised in an adopted management plan, for the wider community.
How commons work
A common is managed by a commons trust established, named and constituted as a corporation by the minister administering the Commons Management Act 1989.
Leases and licensing for commons
Commons are for the specific needs of the commoners. However, parts of the common can be leased or licensed with prior authorisation from the minister.
Management plans for commons
A management plan is a formal document that details the strategic and/or operational (day-to-day) management of a common.
Native title non-claimant applications
A non-claimant application is an application to the Federal Court by a person or entity seeking a determination as to whether native title exists over that area.
Managing devolved Crown reserves
Councils need to manage devolved reserves consistent with the reserve purpose and can undertake minor improvements, restoration work, or works for public safety.