• No results found

Report 2015-2016

N/A
N/A
Protected

Academic year: 2022

Share "Report 2015-2016"

Copied!
80
0
0

Full text

(1)

Annual

Report 2015-2016

(2)

CONTACT DETAILS

Office hours are 8.00am to 4.21pm Monday to Friday and our offices are located in Darwin and Alice Springs.

DARWIN 4th Floor RCG Centre 47 Mitchell Street DARWIN NT 0800

Telephone: (08) 8999 4332 Facsimile: (08) 8999 4334

ALICE SPRINGS Ground Floor Belvedere House

Cnr Bath and Parsons Streets Alice Springs NT 0870 Telephone: (08) 8951 5023 Facsimile: (08) 8952 2824

POSTAL ADDRESS GPO Box 1890 DARWIN NT 0801

INTERNET AND EMAIL Internet: www.aapant.org.au Email: [email protected]

Front cover: Members of the Karrabing Research Project enjoying the sunset in the Anson Bay region.

The Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority has taken due care in ensuring information contained in this annual report was true and correct at the time of publication, however changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on its accuracy. The Authority disclaim all liability associated with the use of this information by others in contexts not approved by the Authority.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island readers and viewers should be aware that this material may contain images or names of deceased persons.

© Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority GPO Box 1890

Darwin NT 0801

www.aapant.org.au

Published September 2016 by the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority, a statutory authority of the Northern Territory Government.

ISSN 2205-5177 (Online)

(3)

Table of Contents

Introduction 6

Our Organisation 13 Governance 20 Initiatives and Projects 29 Performance Report 34 Human Resources — 46 Managing our People

Sustainability 51 Financial Report 53

Board members Veronica Lynch, Walter Kerinauia Junior and Leah Clifford attending an Authority Board meeting in Darwin.

(4)

Minister for Environment and Natural Resources DARWIN NT 0800

30 September 2016 Dear Minister

I have the pleasure to submit to you, in accordance with the provisions of Section 14(1) of the Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act 1989, the Annual Report for the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority for the financial period 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016.

The Report refers to the twenty-seventh year of operation of the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority.

Yours sincerely

Jenny Inmulugulu Chairman

(5)

Minister for Environment and Natural Resources DARWIN NT 0800

30 September 2016 Dear Minister

I have the pleasure to submit to you, in accordance with the provisions of Section 14(1) of the Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act 1989, the Annual Report for the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority for the financial period 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016.

The Report refers to the twenty-seventh year of operation of the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority and to the best of my knowledge and belief as Accountable Officer, pursuant to section 13 of the Financial Management Act;

the system of internal control and audit provides reasonable assurance that:

a) proper records of all transactions affecting the Agency are kept and that employees under their control observe the provisions of the Financial Management Act, the Financial Management Regulations and Treasurer’s Directions;

b) procedures within the Agency afford proper internal control and a current description of such procedures is recorded in the accounting and property manual which has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Financial Management Act;

c) no indication of fraud, malpractice, major breach of legislation or delegation, major error in or omission from the accounts and records exists;

d) in accordance with the requirements of section 15 of the Financial Management Act, the internal audit capacity available to the Agency is adequate and the results of internal audits have been reported to me;

e) the financial statements included in the annual report have been prepared from proper accounts and records and are in accordance with Treasurer’s Directions; and

f) the Agency is working in compliance with the Information Act.

Yours sincerely

Dr Benedict Scambary Chief Executive Officer

(6)

Introduction 1

Purpose of the Report 7 Target Audience 7 Chairman’s Report 8 Chief Executive 10 Officer’s Report

Deputy Chairman’s 12 Report

Authority CEO Dr Benedict Scambary and Board Deputy Chairman Philip Wilyuka attending an Authority Board meeting in Darwin.

6

(7)

Target Audience

This report seeks to inform interested parties amongst our diverse range of stakeholders of Aboriginal custodians, Government agencies and users of land across the Territory of our objectives and performance during the 2015-16 financial year, as well as our business direction for the year to come.

Purpose of the Report

This is a report on the administration and operation of the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority (the Authority) for the 2015-16 financial year. This report includes the Authority’s Financial Statements and shows compliance with standards of internal control in accordance with the reporting requirements of the Financial Management Act, the Treasure’s Directions and the policies of the Northern Territory Government.

It also provides the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly and the public with an account of the performances, responsibilities and activities of the Authority.

View above Barrkmalam (Jim Jim falls) from the helicopter during fieldwork in the

7

Jim Jim/Twin Falls area in Kakadu National Park.

(8)

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

Since the late 1970s sacred sites in the Northern Territory have been protected by law, first by Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act (NT) 1978, and later by the Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act 1989 (the Sacred Sites Act). This law is significant in its recognition of the importance of sacred sites. Sacred sites connect people with ceremony, law and traditions, across time and generations. They are part of Aboriginal people’s living culture, and an integral part of the Northern Territory’s and Australia’s cultural heritage.

The Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act balances the protection of sacred sites with the use or development of land or sea across the Territory.

Through consultations with Aboriginal custodians, the Authority seeks to understand the heritage and stories of the land and record information about sacred sites and custodianship. These consultations serve to

negotiate ways in which land users or developers can proceed with projects whilst managing their liabilities.

As the newly appointed chairman of the Board, it gives me great pride to lead and be part of an organisation that works to protect sacred sites for current and future generations. In the last 12 months the membership of the Board has changed substantially due to many Board members retiring at the end of their three-year terms. The retiring Board members are: Mr Bernard Abbott, Ms Banduk Marika, Mr Captain Woditj, Ms Lena Pula, Mr Pepy Simpson, Mr Thomas Amgula, Mr John Rawnsley and Ms Nancy McDinny. I wholeheartedly thank these members for their contribution and dedication to the Authority. Notably Mr Bernard Abbott had served as a Board member for 20 years, and Ms Banduk Marika had served for nine years. During their time on the Board these members brought a new level of understanding and awareness of the importance of sacred sites.

I welcome back Lynette Granites, who has been reappointed for another three years to the Board, and I also welcome our new ten members who come from around the Territory and who bring with them a wealth of experience and knowledge about sacred sites, as well as policy and public sector administration.

8

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

(9)

Throughout this year the Board and I have focussed on building good relationships with custodians and stakeholders who rely on the advice and knowledge of the Authority. Talking to stakeholders about sacred sites and about how we can achieve positive outcomes for both custodians and developers is one of the most important things we do. In 2015-16 the Board met with a number of key people and organisations including: The Honourable Bess Price, MLA, Minister for Community Services; Price WaterHouse Coopers Indigenous Consulting and the Power and Water Corporation.

In 2015 the Northern Territory Government commissioned an Independent Review of the Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act to examine its scope and operation. As the current Sacred Sites Act has only undergone minor changes since 1989, the Board welcomed this timely announcement and believe the review is an opportunity to identify improvements to help strengthen the capacity of the Sacred Sites Act to protect sacred sites, and meet the needs of all Territorians.

Prior to the Review the Board had been keenly aware of the limitations of the current Sacred Sites Act and had supported past attempts by the Authority to amend its legislation. Around the time of the change in Government in 2012 the Board had endorsed a proposed suite of legislative changes to the Sacred Sites Act which focussed mainly on achieving administrative efficiencies in the operation of the Act.

However in 2013, following the appointment of a new Minister for Local Government and Community Services, the motivation, scope and intention of these amendments were subjected to change.

At that time it became apparent to the Board that the Minister’s intention for legislative changes were motivated by a need to create greater economic activity and to reduce red tape for businesses engaging with the Sacred Sites Act. The Board felt that its purpose to protect sacred sites and its independence did not sit comfortably with the Government’s intentions.

In October 2014, the Commonwealth Government announced an investigation into Indigenous land administration and use, which eventually led to the establishment of the Northern Territory

Government’s Aboriginal Land Strategic Policy (ALSP) unit. The group, located within the Department of the Chief Minister, was tasked with reviewing legislation relevant to Aboriginal Land Administration with a view of improving legislative and administrative systems to support Indigenous land use. An apparent dis-connect between the proposed changes to the Sacred Sites Act and the ALSP’s broader project was addressed by a review of the Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act commissioned by the ALSP. As at the end of this financial year, the Board and staff of the Authority have worked closely with the review team for several months and hope that the review will soon lead to a better, stronger and more enduring Sacred Sites Act.

Sadly, during these last 12 months, a number of custodians who have worked closely with the Authority have passed away. On behalf of the Board I would like to acknowledge these custodians and their important contribution to the protection of sacred sites.

Finally I thank the Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ben Scambary, and the staff of the Authority for their support and commitment to the Board and the protection of sacred sites.

Jenny Inmulugulu Chairman

30 September 2016

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

9

(10)

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REPORT

The Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority has been in existence in one form or another for the past 35 years with the primary function of protecting sacred sites in the Northern Territory. Through its administration of the Sacred Sites Act, the Authority provides an important regulatory function to preserve cultural values in the Northern Territory, whilst maintaining a balance with the economic and social aspirations of all Territorians.

For more than three decades the Sacred Sites Act has minimised conflict through careful mediation of development and sacred site protection and has emerged as a successful risk management tool for both developers and custodians of sacred sites. Since 1989 the Authority has delivered certainty for thousands of projects across the Territory, whilst protecting sacred sites.

During this period the Sacred Sites Act has undergone only minimal amendments against a backdrop of considerable economic, political and social change in the Northern Territory. In 2015 the Northern Territory Government announced that it was conducting a review of the Act to investigate the extent to which the Sacred Sites Act supports economic development in the Northern Territory, and how protection of sacred sites could be strengthened. As part of the review’s terms of references it will examine the scope and operation of the Sacred Sites Act as well as the strategic and day-to-day operations of the Authority.

The Board of the Authority and I have welcomed the review as an

opportunity to ensure the Sacred Sites Act remains effective and relevant in achieving its purpose. In the last months we have worked closely with the review team from Price Waterhouse Coopers Indigenous Consulting and we look forward to seeing the report and its recommendations in 2016-2017.

I commend the team from Price Waterhouse Coopers Indigenous Consulting for their approach and commitment to the review. I hope the review will raise questions and ideas about how the role of the Sacred Sites Act should develop to meet changing circumstances and challenges. It is likely that once the review is released next year, it will strongly inform the future work program of the Authority.

10

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

(11)

Throughout 2015-16 the Authority has focussed on the Government’s red tape reduction program through enhancements to its information technology and business systems, and adjustments to its internal processes. A critical issue to the Authority is the replacement of its key business system Administrative Research Management System (ARMS).

Since the late 1990s the Research Management System (ARMS) has been used to record and manage its sacred site information. ARMS was the first Oracle database developed in the Northern Territory Government environment and, due to technological and licensing changes, it is now out-dated and needs replacing.

After considerable commitment and resources from the Authority, I am pleased to report that the Authority is now close to finalising the first phase of its IT Project, a partial redevelopment of its sacred sites database. The new system will enable the online lodgement and receipt of Authority Certificates and Abstracts of Records, as well as enable applicants to track the progress of their applications. As at the end of 2015-2016, the Authority was in the final stages of programming and internal testing. Next financial year the Authority expects to carry out testing in the live IT environment with selected clients, before rolling out the new system to the wider population.

The project will lead to significant benefits for stakeholders and the Authority, including faster application times, real-time status updates, a reduction of paperwork and telephone enquiries, and better

information management due to improved control processes.

As part the cutting red tape program, the Authority continued its focus on streamlining its internal processes to improve the quality of its services to stakeholders and to reduce timeframes. This has resulted in the Authority reducing its turnaround time for Authority Certificates from 126 days in 2014-15 to 114 days in 2015-16. This reduction in timeframes for clearances has helped support the progress of a wide range of development proposals.

In the context of current Government priorities to develop the north and other major developments in the Northern Territory, the Authority has always been uniquely placed to support these priorities.

The Authority has worked with custodians and developers to achieve sacred site protection and provide clearances for 242 projects across the Northern Territory, including those relating to

infrastructure development, housing, social projects, tourism, defence, mining and agriculture.

Looking ahead, the key focus in 2016-17 will be the development and implementation of a new strategic plan for the Authority, rolling out the new IT system, and implementing the recommendations of the Review once it has been released.

The Authority has achieved a great deal this year. This has only been possible due to the good work of the Authority’s Board and staff, and the support of many custodians and stakeholders who believe in the importance of what we do. I look forward to continuing our work in 2016-17.

Dr Benedict Scambary Chief Executive Officer 30 September 2016

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

11

(12)

DEPUTY CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

It was a privilege to be appointed to the Board this year. I have enjoyed and learned so much from my fellow members and was honoured to be elected as the Board’s Deputy Chairman.

I would like to thank the outgoing Board members for the legacy of sacred site protection they leave behind. As a new member to the Board, I hope to continue the good work of my predecessors. In particular the Board is very supportive of the on-going review of the Sacred Sites Act and looks forward to reviewing and implementing its recommendation in the year ahead.

The Board values the importance of development for the social and

economic benefit of all people and seeks to facilitate development projects, while recognising the need to protect sacred sites. During 2015-16 the Board has worked hard to help Aboriginal people and land users achieve their aspirations for sacred site protection and land use.

One of the central duties of the Board is to consider proposals for the registering of a sacred site into the Authority’s sacred site register. The process of registering a site helps custodians provide a greater level of protection to a sacred site. For any member of the public viewing the register of sacred sites, they will be made aware of the location and boundary of that site. This year the Board approved the registration of three sacred sites. The recent changes to the membership of the Board had temporarily disrupted the Authority’s capacity to progress sacred site registrations. However now that the Board is now mostly appointed, it is expected that the number of registration proposals presented to the Board will steadily increase.

In recognition of the value the Board places on sacred site registrations, the Authority has also focused on refining its internal processes for registrations. It is expected that these improvements will lead to a more efficient registration process and improved communications with stakeholders.

The Board and I look forward to seeing more sacred sites registered in the coming year.

Philip Wilyuka Deputy Chairman 30 September 2016

12

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

(13)

Role and function 14

Our History 14

Mission Statement 15 and Vision

Key services provided 16 by the Authority

Our stakeholders 17 Highlights for 17 2015-2016

Our Organisation 2

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

13

Authority staff, Park staff and custodians crossing Jim Jim Creek in Kakadu National Park.

(14)

Role and Function

The Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority is a statutory authority established under the Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act 1989 to administer sacred site protection in the Northern Territory. The functions of the Authority are set out in Section 10 of the Sacred Sites Act. The protection of Aboriginal sacred sites is recognised by the Northern Territory Government and the broader Territory community as

an important element in the preservation of the Territory’s cultural heritage for the benefit of all Territorians. The Authority seeks to strike a balance between the protection of sacred sites and development in the Northern Territory.

Our History

The Authority has existed in one form or another for the past 35 years with the primary function of protecting sacred sites in the Northern Territory. Its history is entwined with that of the Aboriginal Land Rights (NT) Act 1976, the legislation that gives rise to the Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act 1989.

Authority staff and custodians carrying out consultations in Alice Springs.  

14

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

(15)

Its predecessor, the Aboriginal Sacred Sites (NT) Act 1978, was one of the first pieces of legislation passed by the Northern Territory Government after self-government was granted in 1978.

The new law was significant in its recognition of Aboriginal culture by actively empowering Aboriginal people to protect their sites of cultural significance and allowing their sites to be recorded, registered and protected in the context of development. Under the new law it became an offence to enter, remain, carry out works on or desecrate sacred sites anywhere in the Northern Territory. Other enduring aspects of today’s legal protection were also established, such as a Board largely made up of Aboriginal custodians, nominated by Land Councils, and a clear definition of a sacred site.

The early years brought some controversy between the Authority, the Government and proponents of development. The notion of sacred sites and their meaning and importance to Aboriginal people were poorly understood by the wider community. Under the strong leadership of senior Aboriginal Chairmen, including Mr Raphael Apuatimi OAM and Mr Wenten Rubuntja AM, the Authority worked hard to bridge this gap by engaging with Government and developers to negotiate workable solutions.

Throughout the 1980s there were numerous proposals to amend the Aboriginal Sacred Sites (NT) Act 1978. In 1988 the Northern Territory Government introduced the Aboriginal Areas Protection Bill (NT) in an attempt to strike a more effective balance between the protection of sacred sites and the development of the Territory, its people and resources. However the Bill did not proceed due to concerns that it was incompatible with Section 73(1) of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act.

The Government continued negotiations with the Authority and Land Councils over amendments to the sacred sites legislation, which led to the current Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act 1989 and established the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority. For the last 26 years the Sacred Sites Act has established a framework based on voluntary engagement and has emerged as a successful risk management tool for developers and custodians of sacred sites alike.

The current Sacred Sites Act has been subject to only minor changes in the last 26 years and in late 2015 the Northern Territory Government announced an independent review of the Sacred Sites Act.

Mission Statement

To protect sacred sites in the Northern Territory by recognising and respecting the interests of custodians of sacred sites, landowners and developers, for the benefit of all Territorians.

Vision

• Achieve practical outcomes by recognising and

respecting the interests of Aboriginal sacred site custodians, landowners and developers.

• Minimise controversy over the existence of sacred sites.

• Provide sound and timely protection of sacred sites in the Northern Territory.

• Foster understanding and enhance relations between Aboriginal custodians and other Territorians about sacred sites.

• Provide clear and practical instructions for the protection of sacred sites.

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

15

(16)

Key Services provided by the Authority

The Authority provides the means by which Aboriginal sacred sites are protected through:

• Sacred site avoidance surveys and the issuing of Authority Certificates for any proposals of development;

• The provision of information to the public about existing sacred sites data through abstracts of Authority records and access to the Registers maintained by the Authority; and

• The registration of Aboriginal sacred sites.

h

h Authority Certificates

Anyone proposing to use or work on land in the Northern Territory may apply to the Authority for an Authority Certificate to cover their proposed activities.

Such Certificates are based on consultations with custodians and provide clear instructions on what can and can’t be done in and around sacred sites.

An Authority Certificate provides a statutory indemnity against prosecution in relation to the works or uses covered by the Certificate, provided the applicant complies with any conditions imposed to protect sacred sites. Certificates are voluntary and provide an effective risk management tool for developers and act as site protection measures for custodians.

h

h Requests for Information

Members of the public may seek advice on registered sacred sites by requesting access to the Register of Sacred Sites. The Authority provides abstracts of information to advise the public where sacred sites are known to exist so that they are not inadvertently damaged and provide advice where sacred sites are likely to be at risk if works were to be carried out without more detailed information being sought first. The Authority may advise that they should not carry out works on these sacred sites without an Authority Certificate and that any development proposals take into account their existence.

h

h The Registration of Aboriginal Sacred Sites

Custodians of sacred sites may apply to have their sites registered under Part III Division 2 of the Sacred Sites Act. The Authority will then conduct research into the site to determine the location, extent and significance of the site. In accordance with the Sacred Sites Act, the Authority ensures that sufficiently detailed documentation about specific sacred sites is recorded to warrant their inclusion by the Board and that landowners are given an opportunity to comment.

16

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

(17)

Our Stakeholders

The Authority serves a diverse range of stakeholders, including Territory and Commonwealth Government agencies, Aboriginal custodians and traditional owners, industry groups (including the oil, gas and mining, and pastoral industries), the Defence Force, Land Councils, Local Governments and Shires, communication network companies, food producers, tourism operators, environmental managers (including Indigenous Rangers) home owners, real estate agencies and a range of private and non-government organisations who use land across the Territory. The Authority strives to meet the needs of all stakeholders in order to protect sacred sites.

Highlights for 2015-2016

h

h Statistics at a Glance

• In 2015-16, the Authority issued 242 Authority Certificates, an increase of 37% from the previous reporting period.

• The Authority reduced the average time-frame for Authority Certificates from 126 days in 2014-15 to 114 days in 2015-16.

• Governments (Northern Territory, Commonwealth, Local, other) are the largest client group for Authority Certificates.

• Infrastructure related projects (planning and infrastructure, housing development, power, water and sewage) represented 46 per cent (or 111) of Authority Certificate issued in 2015-16.

• In 2015-16, the Authority completed 636 formal requests for information from its publically available Registers.

h

h Sacred Site Protection

• The Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority celebrated its 27th Anniversary in 2015- 16, with a total of 37 years of sacred site protection in the Northern Territory.

• Three sacred sites were registered in 2015-16.

Custodians Jeff Lee and Courtney Nadjermerrek during

fieldwork in Kakadu National Park. Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

17

(18)

Development Projects the Authority has issued Authority Certificates for included:

h

h Construction projects

• Nightcliff Foreshore seawall

• Construction of Braitling and Larapinta Primary Schools, Alice Springs

• Construction of Police Workshop Stores Complex, Alice Springs

• Construction of Marine Industry Park, East Arm

h

h Essential services:

• Construction of solar arrays at the communities of Minyerri, Arlparra, Wurrumiyanga (Cape Fourcroy), Maningrida, Milikapiti and Pirlangimpi.

• Construction of high voltage powerline from Wadeye to Peppimenarti

• Flood mitigation works for Rapid Creek, Ludmilla, Yarrawonga and Wadham Lagoon

• Water drilling at Engawala community

• Construction and maintenance of water and sewer rising main, Katherine

h

h Major road upgrades

• Upgrade and sealing of Tanami Road

• Carpentaria Highway

• Buchanan Highway from Coolibah Creek to Stuart Highway

• Bridgeworks at the Victoria Highway crossing Saddle Creek

• Amanbidji Road

• Bullita Road, Timber Creek

• Lajamanu Road

• Plenty Highway

• Big Horse Creek Bridge and Little Horse Creek Bridge construction and realignment of Victoria Highway

• Raymingirr Access Road upgrade, East Arnhem Land

h

h Tourism and visitor experience projects

• Works to boat ramps and nearby facilities at Big Horse Creek, Dundee Beach and Batten Road

• Maintenance and upgrade works at Litchfield National Park

• Construction of a Todd River walkway from Tuncks Road to Stott Terrace

• Upgrade of Mataranka Thermal Pool

• Upgrade of Kings Canyon visitor area, Watarrka National Park

• Repair, upgrade and maintenance of walking tracks at Ormiston Gorge

• Construction of walking track shelters along Larapinta Trail, West MacDonnell National Park

• Construction and upgrade of George Brown Darwin Botanical Gardens

• Renewal of infrastructure services and facilities within Black Jungle / Lambells Lagoon Management Area and Holmes Jungle Nature Park

• Construction of a Netball Stadium in Alice Springs

• Upgrade of Arunga Park Speedway, Alice Springs

Kadeem May and custodian Anthony Sullivan boarding a helicopter during fieldwork in Kakadu National Park.

18

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

(19)

Human Resources highlights

• The Authority had a total of 29.73 full time equivalent (FTE) staff members in 2015-16, down from 31.13 FTE the previous year.

• 18.2% of employees identify as Indigenous and 81.8 % as non-Indigenous.

• The gender distribution of staff of the Authority is 64.70%

female and 35.30% male, an increase in the employment of females from the previous year.

• The Authority spent $23,745 on training programs and associated expenses.

Financial highlights

• The Authority’s strong organisational performance during the year resulted in revenue growing by more than 11% to $5.93M.

• This increased activity also impacted on expenditure which grew by 8%, mainly in personnel costs. The impact of this growth was a surplus of $0.483M, a rise of 66%.

View across the Jim Jim/Twin Falls area in Kakadu National Park.

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

19

(20)

Authority Board 21 Authority Operations 24 Legislation and Policy 25 Executive Management 26 Group

Committees 27 Strategic Priorities 28 2015-2016

Governance 3

Board Chairman Jenny Inmulugulu and Board member Lynette Granites attending an Authority Board meeting in Darwin.

20

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

(21)

Authority Board h

h Membership and meetings

The Authority Board comprises twelve members, ten of whom are nominated by Northern Territory Land Councils in equal numbers (five) of males and females, and two of whom are nominated by the Minister for Local Government and Community Services as Government

representatives. To fill vacancies for Aboriginal custodian members, the Land Councils are requested to nominate a panel of twice the number of custodians of the relevant gender. The Administrator of the Northern Territory appoints members by notice in the Northern Territory Government Gazette. Board members of the Authority are sacred site custodians who have been appointed from different regions of the Territory to provide a geographically representative balance for the Authority. To fill the two vacancies for Government representatives, the Minister for Local Government and Community Services nominates representatives who provide sound administrative experience.

The Administrator also appoints Aboriginal members as the Chairman and Deputy Chairman, who must be of opposite gender, based on nominations from the Authority.

h

h Authority Board Meetings

Under the Sacred Sites Act, the Authority meets four times each calendar year.

In the 2015-16 financial year the Chairman called the following meetings:

106th Board Meeting 8 December 2015 Darwin 107th Board Meeting 9 December 2015 Darwin 108th Board Meeting 6-7 April 2016 Darwin

h

h Appointments

The terms of nine Board members expired in 2015. After years of dedicated service Mr Bernard Abbott, Ms Banduk Marika, Mr Captain Woditj, Ms Lena Pula, Mr Pepy Simpson, Mr Thomas Amagula, Mr John Rawnsley, Ms Nancy McDinny retired from the Board.

Ms Jenny Inmulugulu was reappointed to the Board on 29 September 2015.

From August to December 2015 the Authority welcomed seven new members to its Board:

• Ms Leah Clifford (appointed 1 August 2015)

• Mr Walter Kerinauia Jnr (appointed 31 August 2015)

• Mr Phillip Mamarika (appointed 31 August 2015)

• Mr Jack Green (appointed 29 September 2015)

• Ms Bobby Nunggumarjbarr (appointed 29 September 2015)

• Ms Veronica Lynch (appointed 14 December 2015)

• Mr Philip Wilyuka (appointed 14 December 2015).

As at the end of June 2016 ten members [see following] had been appointed to the Authority’s Board. The remaining two vacancies were in the process of being filled.

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

21

(22)

h

h Ms Jenny Inmulugulu, Chairman

Nominated by: Northern Land Council Date re-appointed: 29 September 2015 First appointed in: 2006

Meetings attended in 2015-16: 3

Ms Inmulugulu is a traditional owner of Warruwi on South Goulburn Island. She has been a member of the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority since 2006 and served as Deputy Chair on the Board from 2008-2012. Ms Inmulugulu is a senior woman for her clan and a strong advocate for her community and the Northern Land Council’s regional council.

h

h Mr Philip Wilyuka – Deputy Chairman

Nominated by: Central Land Council Date appointed: 14 December 2015 Meetings attended in 2015-16: 3

Mr Wilyuka is a Pitjanjatjara/

Yankunytjatjara man from the community of Titjikala. Mr Wilyuka currently works as a Lutheran pastor at Titjikala and has been involved with the Central Land Council (CLC) for many years. In 2012-2013 he served as Chair of the CLC and has also been a CLC member for the Alice Springs Region. In April 2016 Mr Wilyuka was elected by the CLC for the Aboriginal Benefit Account (ABA) Advisory Committee.

h

h Ms Leah Clifford

Nominated by: Northern Territory Government Date appointed: 1 August 2015

Meetings attended in 2015-16: 3

Ms Clifford is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the Northern Territory Department of Housing and has previously held senior positions within the Northern Territory Government, including in the Department of Lands, Planning and the Environment. She brings specialist professional skills in the area of land policy and administration to the Authority Board membership.

h

h Mr Walter Kerinauia Junior

Nominated by: Tiwi Land Council Date appointed: 31 August 2015 Meetings attended in 2015-16: 3

Mr Walter Kerinauia Junior is one of the senior ‘culture men’ on the Tiwi Islands.

He is a past member of the Tiwi Islands Regional Council/Tiwi Islands Local Government. He has been the long-time Trustee of the Mantiyupwi land owning group which takes in southern parts of both Bathurst and Melville Islands. He is also a past Director of Mantiyupwi Pty Ltd.

h

h Mr Jack Green

Nominated by: Northern Land Council Date appointed: 29 September 2015 Meetings attended in 2015-16: 3

Mr Jack Green is from Borroloola. He is a Senior Cultural Advisor to the Garawa and Waanyi/

Garawa Ranger programs in the Gulf region of the Northern Territory. He is a member of the Borroloola Aboriginal Peoples and has contributed significantly to Aboriginal community-based development programs in remote regions of Australia. Mr Green is a strong supporter of the maintenance of Aboriginal connection to the land.

22

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

(23)

h

h Ms Veronica Lynch

Nominated by: Central Land Council Date appointed: 14 December 2015 Meetings attended in 2015-16: 1

Ms Lynch is from Black Tank Community Outstation and was a founding member of the Indigenous tourism venture Black Tank Tour Experiences which provided guests with insight into local Arrente culture. She has also been involved with the Central Land Council for a number of years and was a member of the CLC representing Ingkerreke Outstation from 2013-2016. During this period she also held a position on the Aboriginals Benefit Account (ABA) Advisory Committee and provided advice to the Minister for Indigenous Affairs on ABA grant applications.

h

h Ms Lynette Granites

Nominated by: Central Land Council Date re-appointed: 14 April 2015 First appointed in: 2005

Meetings attended in 2015-16: 3

Ms Granites is a highly respected senior Walpiri woman from Yuendumu. She has been a member of the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Board since 2005. Ms Granites is well known for her knowledge in women’s law and culture and has worked closely with the Authority on many sacred site registrations and Authority Certificate consultations. She has worked as a health worker for many years and is a renowned artist in her community.

h

h Mr Phillip Mamarika

Nominated by: Anindilyakwa Land Council Date appointed: 31 August 2015

Meetings attended in 2015-16: 1

Mr Phillip Mamarika is a respected elder of the Mamarika Clan of Umbakumba on Groote Eylandt. He currently works as a Senior Ranger with the Anindilyakwa Land and Sea Rangers, providing on-the-ground leadership and mentoring to ten staff concerning traditional land and sea country. Mr Mamarika represents the Anindilyakwa Land and Sea Rangers at the Anindilyakwa Indigenous Protected Area Advisory Committee and the Learning on Country Steering Committee.

His role also extends to general community liaison and he is a strong conduit between the Land and Sea Rangers and the Anindilyakwa Land Council Head Office.

h

h Mr Bobby Nunggumarjbarr

Nominated by: Northern Land Council Date appointed: 29 September 2015 Meetings attended in 2015-16: 3

Mr Bobby Nunggumarjbarr is a senior Nunggubuyu man from Numbulwar in South-East Arnhem Land. He has had a long and distinguished career in public administration in the region as Town Clerk of Angurugu on Groote Eylandt, and has held various positions on the Yugul Mangi Community Government Council in Ngukurr and more recently the Roper Gulf Shire. Mr Nunggumarjbarr is widely respected for his knowledge and authority across South- East and Central Arnhem Land. Mr Nuggumarjbarr has also been the Senior Project Officer in charge of the Northern Land Council’s Ngukurr office for the past 15 years, and more recently as a Director for Arnhem Frontier and Civil Construction.

h

h Mr Michael Tennant

Nominated by: Northern Territory Government Date appointed: 12 May 2015

Meetings attended in 2015-16: 2

Mr Tennant has been the Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Business since October 2014. Prior to this role Mr Tennant was the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Northern Territory Department of the Chief Minister and also worked in the Queensland Public Service in a range of senior executive leadership roles across a range of public sector agencies. He is an experienced public sector administration professional and has his tertiary qualifications in law and economics.

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

23

(24)

Authority Operations h

h Principles of Governance

The Authority’s governance framework aims to ensure that the Authority carries out its functions in an effective and efficient manner in accordance with its responsibilities under the Sacred Sites Act. This includes:

• effective human resources management practices;

• quality control for data and outputs;

• development of risk management strategies;

and

• planning and development of a strategic plan.

h

h How the Authority is Governed

The primary policy and decision-making body is the Authority (the Board) established under Section 5 of the Sacred Sites Act. Section 15 of the Sacred Sites Act requires that “The Administrator shall appoint a Chief Executive Officer of the Authority who shall be charged with carrying out the decisions of the Authority.” All other staff of the Authority are employed directly by the Authority, under Section 17 of the Sacred Sites Act.

Section 19 provides for the Authority to delegate certain powers or functions. The Chief Executive Officer holds various such delegations and is

responsible for the overall operation of the Authority.

The CEO also exercises responsibilities under the Financial Management Act and complies with the principles of the Public Sector Employment and Management Act.

h

h How the Authority is Managed

The Chief Executive Officer maintains overall responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the Authority. To ensure the smooth functioning of the office, the Chief Executive Officer chairs weekly Executive Management Group meetings. Each operational group also meets regularly to ensure an effective flow of information.

The Authority’s operational groups comprise: Sacred Sites Research and Information, Corporate Services, and Policy and Governance.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Sacred Sites Research

and Information Corporate Services Policy and Governance

Key responsibilities: Key responsibilities: Key responsibilities:

Authority Certificate

research Human resources Organisational

performance Anthropological

research Procurement and

contracts Strategic planning

Requests for

information Property and vehicle

management Policy development

Site registrations Finance, budget and

accounting Legal and compliance

Mapping Records management Ministerial

correspondence Public registers Information Technology Secretariat to the

Board, Audit Committee and Executive

Management Group Stakeholder

management Library

Project management

Authority Board Minister

24

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

(25)

An internal audit function is being implemented by the Policy and Governance unit to assist the Chief Executive Officer, as the Accountable Officer, in fulfilling his responsibility. In doing so, an internal audit will assist by ensuring that:

• Systems and processes comply with appropriate procedures, policies, standards, legislation and other regulatory requirements.

• Appropriate internal controls exist and are operative.

• An appropriate risk management framework is operational in all areas of the business.

• Special inquiries are conducted for the Chief Executive Officer into any matter or activity affecting the interests and operating efficiency of the department, where required.

The Risk Management and Audit Committee monitors and provides advice on matters

related to risk management policies, procedures, action plans and internal controls.

Legislation and Policy h

h Aboriginal Sacred Site Protection in the Northern Territory

Aboriginal sacred sites are recognised and protected as an integral part of Northern Territory and Australian cultural heritage under both the Commonwealth’s Aboriginal Land Rights (NT) Act 1976 (Land Rights Act) and the Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act 1989. Both of these Acts define a sacred site as:

…a site that is sacred to Aboriginals or is otherwise of significance according to Aboriginal tradition…

h

h Commonwealth and Northern Territory Laws

The establishment of the Sacred Sites Act by the Northern Territory Government was enabled by Section 73 of the Land Rights Act which gives the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly power to enact laws for:

73(1)(a) laws providing for the protection of, and the prevention of the desecration of, sacred sites in the Northern Territory, including sacred sites on Aboriginal land, and, in particular, laws regulating or authorising the entry of persons on those sites, but so that any such laws shall provide for the right of Aboriginals to have access to those sites in accordance with Aboriginal tradition and shall take into account the wishes of Aboriginals relating to the extent to which those sites should be protected;

The Sacred Sites Act was passed under this power to establish procedures for the protection and registration of sacred sites and the avoidance of sacred sites in the development and use of land.

The protection of sacred sites in the Territory is furthermore aided by Section 69 of the Land Rights Act which broadly prohibits entry and remaining on any land in the Northern Territory that is a sacred site, unless a law of the Northern Territory specifies otherwise.

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

25

(26)

h

h Landowners and Developers

The Authority strives to achieve practical outcomes in its operations by balancing the interests of site custodians, landowners and developers. Often custodians, landowners and developers have divergent interests in land. There is usually substantial overlap between these interests. In most cases, the Authority’s challenge is to accommodate new uses and development of land with the need to protect sacred sites, thus preserving and enhancing Aboriginal tradition in a changing social, economic and cultural environment. Landowners and developers are afforded certain rights under the Sacred Sites Act.

• Section 28 provides the opportunity for landowners to make representations on the prospective registration of a sacred site.

• Section 44 of the Sacred Sites Act explicitly deals with landowners’ rights to use land comprised in a sacred site consistent with the protection of sacred sites. Authority Certificates provide a legal instrument to accommodate such land-use.

• Under Section 48A, if the application of the Sacred Sites Act in a particular case would result in an acquisition of property other than on just terms, then the person affected is entitled to such compensation as a court may decide.

As well as protecting the fabric of sacred sites in the context of land ownership and development, the Sacred Sites Act provides for Aboriginal people to have access to sacred sites ‘in accordance with Aboriginal tradition’.

In accordance with the Sacred Sites Act, all sacred sites are protected regardless of underlying land title, registration status or whether or not they are known to the Authority. The specific sections of the Sacred Sites Act relevant to the protection of sacred sites are Sections 33 (unauthorised entry), 34 (unauthorised works or uses) and 35 (desecration), which set out the various offences in relation to sacred sites.

h

h Responsibilities under Northern Territory Heritage Legislation

Section 128 (2)(b) of the Heritage Act 2011 states that the Authority must have a representative on the Heritage Advisory Council.

Executive Management Group (EMG)

The Authority’s Executive Management Group comprises senior managers from the organisation’s operational areas and is chaired by the Chief Executive Officer.

The purpose of the Executive Management Group is to provide the Chief Executive Officer with advice and support in relation to a range of strategic and operational matters. The group’s key functions include monitoring the organisation’s performance, setting the Authority’s strategic direction and priorities, developing and implementing the Strategic Plan and addressing critical issues facing the organisation.

The EMG members are:

• Dr Ben Scambary, Chief Executive Officer.

• Mr Maurice Sacilotto, A/ Director Corporate Services.

• Ms Malene Bjornskov, Director Policy and Governance.

• Dr Sophie Creighton, Director Sacred Site Research and Information Unit.

26

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

(27)

Committees h

h Risk Management and Risk Audit Committee

In accordance with section 13(2) of the Financial Management Act, the CEO must ensure that appropriate internal control procedures are in place. As such, the Authority Risk Management and Audit Committee exists to provide advice to the Chief Executive Officer on matters associated with risk management, internal controls, reviews and audit within the Authority. These matters may include:

• Endorse and monitor the Risk Management Plan (RMP) for the Authority.

• Monitor external audit program outcomes and the implementation of audit recommendations.

• Monitor the development of review programs and internal audit.

• Review progress and findings of process reviews and monitor the implementation of findings.

• Consider the adequacy of the internal control environment, including the effectiveness of internal controls on key risks, such as fraud, Information and Communications Technology (ICT) governance and systems for ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

• Consider financial reports of the Authority, particularly the narrative summaries and statements included in the annual report, with respect to risk management and internal controls.

• Within the context of the Committee’s primary purpose, undertake other functions and activities as determined from time to time by the Chief Executive Officer.

The Committee is made up of an Independent Chair from the Northern Territory Public Service, Authority staff and at least one external senior Northern Territory Public Service officer.

h

h Research Management Group (RMG)

The purpose of this committee is to consider complex issues on matters affecting sacred sites and, where appropriate, develop and update policies and procedures or provide advice to EMG. The committee is made up of members from the Sacred Site Research and Information Unit and Compliance, and is chaired by the Director Sacred Site Research and Information Unit. All policies and procedures developed by the Committee are presented to EMG for approval and publishing.

h

h HR Policies and Procedures Committee

The purpose of this committee is to identify, develop and update operational policies and procedures. The committee is made up of members from Corporate Services and the Sacred Site Research and Information Unit. All policies and procedures developed by the Committee are presented to EMG for approval and publishing.

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

27

(28)

Strategic Priorities 2015-2016

Strategic Directions Business Priorities

1

Protection of Sacred Sites in the Northern Territory

Ensuring the protection of Aboriginal Sacred Sites whilst supporting economic development and reflecting the on-going development of the Northern Territory

• Ensure the Sacred Sites Act evolves to reflect cultural, legal, political and environmental changes in the Northern Territory

• Ensure the Authority and staff are equipped to administer the Sacred Sites Act’s legal requirements and deliver its functions

• Maintain cross-government communication and provide high level advice to Ministers and Parliament

• Ensure strategic communication is maintained with all

stakeholders across the Territory

2

Quality Research Providing timely detailed and up-to-date research around Sacred Site issues based on on- going relationships with Custodians and Traditional Owner and reflecting the latest developments in anthropological research

• Undertake professional anthropological field research in order to collect, store and report on information relating to sacred sites and their protection

• Ensure Authority research methodology and principles are consistent and meet the needs of the Authority

3

Information management

Information management meets evolving

requirements of Authority and stakeholders

• Maintain existing information management systems to ensure functionality and viability

• Develop new information systems to reflect changes in technology and new functionality

4

Our People

Ensure Authority has the most appropriate staff with up-to-date tools and resources to fulfil their work roles

• Provide leadership to ensure all staff are able to actively contribute to developing Authority priorities

• Build capabilities of Authority staff

• Maintain the Authority’s Indigenous Employment Strategy

5

Financial Resources Financial compliance and controls meet best practice guidelines

• Ensure financial management complies with wider Northern Territory Government Treasury Directions, Appropriation Requirements and Australian Accounting Standards

• Financial management processes meet operational requirements of the Authority

The Authority is currently reviewing its priorities and plans to implement a new Strategic Plan In 2016-17.

28

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

(29)

Notable Authority 30 Certificates

Working relationships 31 Community Outreach 32 Special projects 33

Initiatives and

Projects 2015-2016 4

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

29

Wild buffaloes travelling through Kakadu National Park.

(30)

The Authority continues to work with the Northern Territory

Government, industry groups and private and public organisations to protect sacred sites and raise the profile of sacred site protection in the Northern Territory. Our unique role and experience means the Authority is ideally placed to support these priorities through its work in protecting sacred sites, while facilitating development projects across the Territory, particularly in the context of current Commonwealth and Territory Government priorities to develop the north and deliver major projects in the Territory.

In the past twelve months, the Authority has worked with proponents of major developments in the Northern Territory to achieve significant outcomes in sacred site protection.

Notable Authority Certificates h

h Tanami Road Upgrade

As part of the Pivot North – Inquiry into the Development of Northern Australia, the report contained priority recommendations that target the development of infrastructure, including major roads, that are critical to the economic and social development of Northern Australia. A major project identified in the report was the sealing of the Tanami Road. In September 2015 the Authority completed an Authority Certificate to provide clear advice on sacred sites in relation to upgrades and sealing for the entire Tanami Road from Alice Springs to Halls Creeks. The Tanami Road, which stretches for just over 1000 kilometres, was a substantial undertaking for the Authority, which involved extensive fieldwork and consultations across vast areas of land. This major road upgrade will lead to improved access in remote areas.

h

h Upgrade and repair of Woolianna School

To support the Northern Territory Government’s investment into schools and education, the Authority carried out several clearances relating to upgrades in remote schools including Woolianna in Nauiyi Nambiyu community (Daly River). After carrying out consultations with custodians an Authority Certificate was issued in May 2016 which protected sacred sites and also facilitated the proposed repair and upgrade of the School.

h

h Sea Dragon Project

In July 2015 the project to construct a 10,000 hectare prawn farm on Legune Station was awarded major project status by the Northern Territory Government. In 2016 the company Seafarms Proprietary Limited lodged an application for an Authority Certificate with the Authority. The Authority, in collaboration with the Northern Land Council (NLC) is currently carrying out research and consultation to progress this application.

Driving track in East Arnhem Land.

30

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

(31)

Working relationships h

h National Broadband Network Company (NBNCo)

In August 2015 the Authority completed its program of Authority

Certificate clearances for the National Broadband Network (NBN) across the Territory. Over the years the Authority has worked closely with the NBN to ensure a smooth rollout of the broadband network in towns and regions of the Northern Territory including Alice Springs, Tennant Creek, Katherine, Nhulunbuy and Darwin. This involved detailed planning and project management by both Authority staff and NBN colleagues and was one of the biggest work projects ever undertaken by the Authority.

This level of collaboration resulted in numerous Authority Certificates being issued in a timely manner and NBN staff being well informed on how to work in and around sacred sites, through jointly arranged training sessions.

In the township of Alice Springs, careful planning between the Authority and NBN allowed the Authority to facilitate the rolling out of the NBN, and at the same time develop a legacy of knowledge of sacred sites in the town that will support development in Alice Springs for many years to come.

In February 2016 the Authority delivered a ‘Sacred Sites Workplace Induction’ also known as a ‘Toolbox Talk’ to new NBNCo staff. These talks outlined the cultural significance of sacred sites and their protection by the Authority. The talks were very successful and helped guide NBN Co staff in their work around sacred sites and were an effective forum for staff of NBN Co to seek clarification of sacred sites matters.

h

h Department of Infrastructure (DoI)

The Authority continues to build upon its close working relationship with DoI. The ongoing successful collaboration between the two organisations has resulted in numerous Authority Certificates being issued in a timely manner. This relationship has included improved capacity to clarify issues onsite during the Authority’s consultation process with Aboriginal custodians and has resulted in significant time being saved in the overall application process for DoI. In the last twelve months the Authority has issued Authority Certificate clearances for a wide range of projects including road upgrade and maintenance works, essential services works and school upgrade works.

The Authority also participated in workshop briefings to DoI staff on protecting sacred sites in the context of development. The Authority’s talks provided DoI staff with information about the Authority, including its processes, how to read certificates and the conduct of ‘work with care’ in the vicinity of sacred sites in accordance with certificate conditions.

h

h Digital Data Exchange

The Authority maintains a database which contains information relating to sacred sites across the Territory. Through the exchange of digital data the Authority has maintained key strategic relationships with Northern Territory Government departments and other key organisations to enable streamlined access to sacred site protection services. Digital data partnerships such as these contribute to increased inter-agency efficiency and ultimately reduce costs and timeframes associated with the processes of sacred site protection.

Authority staff attending a media conference about the rollout of the NBN network in Alice Springs.

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

31

(32)

Community Outreach h

h Training for Northern

Territory Emergency Services (NTES)

To help build good relationships with stakeholders the Authority provided

information and training sessions to groups, organisations and businesses who wished to learn more about sacred sites and the work of the Authority. In May 2016 the Authority provided training to Northern Territory Emergency Staff (NTES) and volunteers to raise awareness and understanding of sacred sites protection. In this session the Authority provided NTES staff and volunteers with training about the carrying out of emergency works on sacred sites in Central Australia.

h

h East Arnhem Rangers Forum

In June 2016, two Authority staff attended the East Arnhem Rangers Forum in Gulkula which brought together Ranger groups and partner organisations from across Arnhem Land and beyond. The forum was designed to share land and sea management knowledge and information within the region, and examine ways in which best practice information could be shared and improved. The Authority gave a presentation on the work of the Authority in partnership with Mr Thomas Amagula, forum organiser and former Authority Board member.

h

h Northern Territory Government Municipal Services Conference

In October 2015 the Northern Territory

Government held its inaugural Municipal Works Conference in Alice Springs. The Authority was invited to speak to council workers about the role of the Authority in the Northern Territory and its working relationships with local councils. Council workers at the conference received information about the Authority and its key services, and an introduction to the Sacred Sites Act. They were also given examples of previous ‘whole of community’ Authority Certificates that were relevant to the wide range of works carried out by council worker in communities. The talk was well received and provided a good opportunity for the Authority to showcase its good working relationship with the Alice Springs Town Council.

Authority Certificate consultation with Mitmitjuh Nurruwuthun at the Badaybaday site, East Arnhem Land.

32

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

(33)

Special Projects h

h Information Technology and Database Review

AAPA will shortly be completing phase 1 of its IT project. The project will lead to the partial replacement of Authority ARMS (Administrative Research Management System) database, which contains 30 years’ of sacred site data collected by the Authority. AAPA has developed an online, web-based IT system, which links in with the Northern Territory Government’s ILIS (Integrated Land Information System) program, and will provide easy access via the internet to a range of information about land and property in the Northern Territory. The project will allow applicants to apply online for Authority Certificates and Requests for Inspection of the Sacred Site Register.

The system will also provide a detailed tracking system to show progress of applications as well as online payments. The new system will assist in speeding up application times and reduce red tape. At the end of 2015-16 the Authority had completed the bulk of programming and was in the final stages of internal testing. It is expected that live testing and full implementation of the system will occur next financial year.

h

h Karrabing Research Project

The Karrabing Film Collective is made up of a group based mostly in Belyuen who produce films about being on country and have received numerous awards in Australia and overseas for their work.

In collaboration with the Authority, the Karrabing Film Collective has begun carrying out fieldwork to register a number of sacred sites around the Anson Bay region. At the end of the project, the Authority will receive multimedia material, featuring Dreaming stories and sacred site information that will be used to register sacred sites.

h

h Kakadu National Park

The Authority was approached by Kakadu National Park in 2012-13 to provide specialist advice on sacred sites that would contribute to the Park’s development of a Jim Jim/Twin Falls Precinct Plan. The Authority undertook research and fieldwork on behalf of Kakadu National Park and Kakadu Aboriginal custodians during 2013-14.

Since 2014 the Authority has carried out fieldwork in the Jim Jim/Twin Falls area. The process of recording and registering sacred sites in this spectacular and highly visited area is currently in its final stages and is expected to be completed in 2016-17. The finished project will inform and enhance Park management as well as contribute to the maintenance and inter-generational transfer of cultural knowledge in the region.

Members of the Karrabing Research Project filming on the Cox Peninsula

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

33

(34)

Protection of Sacred 35 Sites and Performance

Authority Certificates 37 Requests for Information 42 Register of Sacred Sites 45 Damage to Sacred Sites 45

Performance

Report 2015-2016 5

34

Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority Annual Report 2015-2016

View of Gunlom Walawala from the helicopter during fieldwork in the Jim Jim/Twin Falls area in Kakadu National Park.

References

Related documents

In accordance with section 61 of the Financial Management Act 2006, I hereby submit for your information and presentation to State Parliament the Annual Report of the Law

In accordance with section 61 of the Financial Management Act 2006, I hereby submit for your information and presentation to the Parliament the Annual Report of the Law

On behalf of the Committee and in accordance with the provisions of section 21A of the Standing Orders of the Legislative Assembly of the Northern Territory, I submit this Annual

In accordance with the provisions of Section 21A of the Standing Orders of the Legislative Assembly of the Northern Territory, I have pleasure in submitting this Annual Report to

In accordance with section 63 of the Financial Management Act 2006, I hereby submit for your information and presentation to Parliament the Annual Report of the Department

On behalf of the Committee and in accordance with the provisions of section 21A of the Standing Orders of the Legislative Assembly of the Northern Territory, I submit this Annual

In accordance with section 63 of the Financial Management Act 2006 (WA), I hereby submit for your information and presentation to Parliament, the Annual Report of the Department of

In accordance with section 61 of the Financial Management Act 2006, I hereby submit for your information and presentation to the Parliament the Annual Report of the Law

Sessional Com m ittee on the Environm ent 79.. A strong research and development effort, particularly into the integration of control methods, is essential to the

In accordance with section 63 of the Financial Management Act 2006, I hereby submit for your information and presentation to Parliament, the Annual Report of the Office of

I am delighted to present you with the 2016-17 Annual Report of the Department of Tourism and Culture, which has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of Section 28 of

In accordance with Section 63 of the Financial Management Act 2006, I hereby submit for your information and presentation to the Parliament of Western Australia the annual report

In accordance with section 63 of the Financial Management Act 2006, I hereby submit for your information and presentation to Parliament, the Annual Report of the Department of the

In accordance with section 63 of the Financial Management Act 2006, I hereby submit for your information and presentation to Parliament, the final Annual Report for the Department

In accordance with Section 63 of the Financial Management Act 2006, I hereby submit for your information and presentation to the Parliament of Western Australia the annual report

In accordance with section 63 of the Financial Management Act 2006 I hereby submit for your information and presentation to the Parliament of Western Australia the annual report

In accordance with section 63 of the Financial Management Act 2006, I hereby submit for your information and presentation to Parliament, the annual report of the Housing Authority

i am pleased to submit the 2016–17 Annual report of the Professional standards Councils of the Australian Capital territory, new south Wales, the northern territory,

I have the pleasure to submit to you, in accordance with the provisions of Section 14(1) of the Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act 1989, the Annual Report for

(3) The Committee shall examine only those accounts of receipts and expenditure of the Northern Territory and reports of the Auditor-General for financial years commencing after

I am pleased to submit the 2015–16 Annual Report of the Professional Standards Councils of the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, the Northern Territory,

In my opinion the financial report gives a true and fair view of the financial position of the Surveyors Board of the Northern Territory of Australia as at 30 June 2016, and of

5.15 At the time of Mr C’s requests for access to the NDIS, the NDIA did not have any policy or guideline dealing specifically with incarcerated individuals and access to the NDIS.