Native Title inquiry: Connection, authorisation and joinder

The Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) is undertaking an inquiry into the Native Title Act 1993 in respect of:

Connection requirements relating to the recognition and scope of native title rights and interests. 
Any barriers to access to justice for claimants, potential claimants and respondents imposed by the Act’s authorisation and joinder provisions.

In relation to ‘connection requirements’, the ALRC is asked to consider five options for reform, and any other changes that could be made to improve the operation of Commonwealth native title laws and legal frameworks. The ALRC has produced an issues paper and is conducting widespread community consultation. A discussion paper in September 2014 will set out draft proposals.

The Australia Law Reform Commission is a federal agency operating under the Australian Law Reform Commission Act 1996 (Cth), and the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 (Cth). The ALRC is part of the Attorney-General’s portfolio; however, it is independent of government and is able to undertake research, consultations and legal policy development, and to make recommendations to the parliament without fear or favour.