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Historic Mabo decision confirmed Native Title
On 3 June 1992, the High Court of Australia made a decision that changed the history of Australia.
The decision put the Torres Strait Region and Murray Island (Mer) on the map for the rest of the country and the world.
Many Australians had never heard about Mer or the Torres Strait before.
Overnight Mer was in the spotlight, with newspapers, radio and TV stations all over Australia and overseas reporting on the iconic victory of a group of Meriam People who had the passion and strength to fight the government all the way to the highest court in the country… And win!
Why is the Mabo Decision so important for Australia?
The High Court not only acknowledged the traditional rights of the Meriam People, but it also introduced the concept of Native Title into the Australian legal system for all First Nations Australians.
The High Court found
Native Title booklet launched
To mark the 31st anniversary of the Mabo decision by Australia’s highest court, Gur A Baradharaw Kod
Torres Strait Sea and Land Council (GBK) has launched a booklet about Native Title that will be of interest to all First Nations People in Zenadth Kes.
“The Native Title Story of the Torres Strait Region explains how Native Title was recognised in the Torres and Endeavours Straits Region and what this recognition means for Native Title holders and those dealing with them,” GBK chair Lui Ned David said.
“It also explains the role of Prescribed Bodies Corporate - or PBCs as they are commonly known - in managing the rights on behalf of the Native Title Holders and how GBK as the Native Title Service Provider supports PBCs and Native Title Holders.
“The 28-page booklet is also a source of information for anyone who wants to learn more about Native Title – a legal concept that has its origin in the Torres Strait.”
GBK provides Native Title services to Native Title holders, Native Title claimants and PBCs.
All 21 PBCs within the five nation groups of the region – Kemer Kemer Meriam, Gudamaluialgal, Maluilgal, Kulkalgal and Kaiwalagal – are members of GBK.
Torres Strait and Aboriginal Land trusts are also eligible to become members.
You can download a copy of the native title booklet from GBK’s website at www.gbk.org.au or pick up a copy from GBK’s office on Level 1, 82 Douglas Street, right above Col Jones.
