Martu Rebuilding
Negotiating a Martu Settlement
JYAC is disappointed that no real progress has been made on a negotiated agreement for native title over Karlamilyi National Park and compensation for when Premier Charles Court created the national park against the wishes of Martu in 1977.
In 2021, the WA government signed a statement of intent with Martu that clearly acknowledges:
- that Karlamilyi has been part of Martu ngurra since time immemorial,
- that the government did not ask Martu for permission when it created Karlamilyi, and
- that the government wants to negotiate an agreement that recognises Martu native title over Karlamilyi and makes full and final settlement of the State’s compensation liability.
It is now 47 years since Martu lands were taken away, and two years since the government agreed that this injustice needs to be fixed. This delay is holding up plans and funding for proper land titles for the Martu on-country communities and their redevelopment.
Martu are still waiting for:
- Native title and joint management of Karlamilyi National Park, and appropriate compensation
- Parnngurr, Kunawarritji and Punmu town sites to be given back to Martu
- Funding for safe, attractive housing and communities where Martu families can feel safe and happy
