Native Title, Land Rights & Heritage
Native title, Aboriginal land rights and cultural heritage is a complex, evolving and sensitive area of law which has a deep and meaningful impact on the communities involved.
Our Expertise
We act for Indigenous native title claimants, Indigenous local land councils, governments (local councils, and State, Territory and Commonwealth agencies), private sector developers, infrastructure owners and resource companies.
Our team comprises partners and lawyers who are passionate about managing native title issues, leveraging their unique skillsets to effectively and efficiently navigate all types of indigenous issues in a culturally sensitive way – leading to better outcomes for our clients.
How we can help:
- Native title – extinguishment, future act procedures, and determinations.
- Land rights – access and dealing with Crown land and the operation of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 (NSW), processes for claims, and the impact of claims on infrastructure projects and acquisitions.
- Cultural heritage management – dealing with heritage legislation across all States and Territories, and the protections these acts provide for Aboriginal places, objects and significant sites all over Australia.
Insights from the Team
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Native Title, Future Acts and the implications of Yindjibarndi Ngurra Aboriginal Corporation v State of Western Australia (No 2) [2026] FCA 585
ByThe Court addressed the proper approach to assessing both economic and cultural loss.
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Climate-related risks and opportunities: Key trends shaping Australian businesses
ByReflecting on 2025, a year of significant climate-related developments and preparing for what lies ahead.
Other services used by our Native Title, Land Rights & Heritage clients
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Government Property
Maddocks have a long history of advising government departments, statutory authorities, ministers, and agencies on the full spectrum of property-related matters, helping them navigate complex legal frameworks and deliver on their mandates.
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Planning & Environment
Our Planning & Environment team advises on the complete range of planning issues, from environmental impact to development scheme approvals.
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Major Projects & PPPs
We can assist by understanding the intersection of your business needs, the commercial influences and regulatory environment for your project.
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Litigation
Our lawyers understand that taking action through litigation is sometimes required to successfully achieve business goals.
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Compliance & Enforcement
We regularly act for government clients who require others to comply with a full range of enforcement-related matters.
Partner
Sector Leader - State Government NSW
Sydney