Towards an Aboriginal Land Management Framework This project is seeking the Aboriginal community's views on: Access to and use of public lands, Community involvement in managing public lands, The services Government provides to Aboriginal landowners.

Whole of Government Project Although managed by DECC, this is a ‘whole of Government’ project. ‘Public land’ includes state forests, national and state parks, travelling stock reserves and Crown lands, about 15% of NSW. Land management is seen to include State marine waters and rivers.

Broad Project Goals Although ‘land management’ is the first focus of this project, reducing social disadvantage and strengthening the capacity to practise culture and self- determination are key related goals, and comments about land management can refer to these goals.

The Discussion Paper The discussion paper, Towards an Aboriginal land management framework for NSW, sets out issues under five major themes: Acknowledging Aboriginal connection to Country Improving Aboriginal access to public lands Increased Aboriginal participation in the management of public lands Developing economic opportunities from the sustainable use of land Learning and working for Country.

What would a Framework do? An Aboriginal Land Management Framework, based on community feedback, could: clarify a consistent approach to land access, use and management by Aboriginal people, identify gaps in current programs, identify opportunities to develop common principles and policies, better coordinate the delivery of the Government’s:  land management,  cultural heritage,  conservation, and  economic development responsibilities.

Regional Workshops DECC invites Aboriginal people and their communities to attend a series of regional workshops that will be run across the State in February and March The workshops will be advertised in local community media well in advance. Intending participants can be notified of a meeting in their region by letter or beforehand: simply send your contact details to the project postal or address.

Having your say More information DECC Information Centre ALMF Project Manager Culture and Heritage Division Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW PO Box A290, Sydney South Input from the community will be received until Tuesday 31 March 2009.