A proposal to help Aboriginal people fulfil potential economic benefits from their land in Sydney’s Northern Beaches is now on public exhibition for community feedback.
The Northern Beaches Aboriginal Land Development Delivery Plan (DDP) identifies six sites owned by the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council (MLALC) that may be suitable for new homes, job-generating development, other community assets or biodiversity protection.
Minister for Planning and Homes Anthony Roberts said if progressed the plan means new homes and jobs for the area as well as strengthened self-determination of the Indigenous community.
“This proposal is about Aboriginal people taking charge of using their land in ways that best supports their communities and protects their heritage,” Mr Roberts said.
“Helping Aboriginal Land Councils achieve better economic outcomes from their land has long been a priority of mine and this project is a great first step forward for Aboriginal development in the Northern Beaches area.”
If the plan is adopted, specific detailed proposals for each site would then need to be prepared for community feedback, with the first possibly kicking off as early as this year.
“There’s so much potential ready to be unlocked if suitable plans are put forward. The fact that housing and the protection of Aboriginal carvings and other heritage sites are at the fore of this first proposal bodes well for the future,” Mr Roberts said.
Further information will be provided on the Department of Planning and Environment’s website. Community consultation will be six weeks.
