The ALRA serves as the legal foundation for the work of Local Aboriginal Land Councils and was enacted to acknowledge the unique relationship Aboriginal people have with land and water, the ALRA provides mechanisms for Aboriginal communities to reclaim land, protect cultural heritage, and manage resources in line with their Community Land & Business Plan (goals and objectives, values and aspirations).

Preamble to the ALRA stands as a powerful recognition of the long and continuing struggle for justice and self-determination:

• Land in the State of New South Wales was traditionally owned and occupied by Aboriginal persons.

• Land is of spiritual, social, cultural and economic importance to Aboriginal persons. 

• It is fitting to acknowledge the importance that land has for Aboriginal persons and the need of Aboriginal persons for land.

• It is accepted that, as a result of past Government decisions, the amount of land set aside for Aboriginal persons has been progressively reduced without compensation.

• This preamble honours those who fought tirelessly for Aboriginal rights and recognition across the state for many years and generations.
  

Our Role & Responsibilities

Under the ALRA, the WLALC is entrusted with several key responsibilities that support the wellbeing, empowerment and self-determination of the WLALC Aboriginal Community:

Land Management
WLALC acquires, holds and manages land; aligned with cultural values and strives to deliver lasting benefits to current and future generations including (not limited to) employment, housing and health etc.

Cultural Heritage Protection
We are committed to preserving and respecting the cultural heritage of the Worimi; led by local Worimi Elders, Registered Owners and community; including the safeguarding of sacred sites, traditional knowledge, and places of significance etc.

Community Advocacy
We actively represents the interests of the WLALC Aboriginal community in decisions and policies that affect land, water, housing, education, health and culture. We work to ensure the ‘right’ voices are heard at local, state and national levels.

Other Relevant Legislation

In addition to the ALRA, several other laws impact and guide our operations:

Native Title Act 1993 (Cth):  Recognises and protects the traditional rights and interests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in land and waters, in accordance with traditional laws and customs.

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW): Governs land use and development planning, incorporating cultural heritage considerations into environmental and planning processes.

Heritage Act 1977 (NSW): Protects culturally significant Aboriginal sites, objects and places, helping to preserve our cultural legacy.

Staying Informed

Understanding the legislative framework that underpins our work is essential for meaningful community involvement and long-term success.

We encourage all members of the WLALC community - as well as our partners and stakeholders - to stay informed, engaged and empowered through knowledge of these important laws and the responsibilities they entail.