Our approach
Nationally recognised as a leading firm in the area of native title and resources, our team have extensive experience in respect of South Australia’s Aboriginal heritage framework, and are skilled in navigating the substantial recent amendments to the Aboriginal heritage regime.
Our practitioners pride themselves on the unique distinction of experience in representing all three groups with a legal interest in native title and Aboriginal heritage: Government, the Resources and Energy Industry, and Native Title Holders. This has equipped us with an unparalleled insight into the differing interests and imperatives of all parties involved in these industries, allowing our team to achieve swift and lasting outcomes.
Our firm have considerable experience in South Australian mining law generally, including in respect of broader legislative compliance and commercial arrangements.
Why Choose our Team?
- Only South Australian law firm recognised by Doyle’s Guide as a national leader in native title that has significant experience representing Government, the Resources and Energy Industry, and Native Title holders.
- A proven track record as industry leaders in negotiating agreements. This includes a number of agreements which have substantial State-wide economic significance. Our team has negotiated agreements in respect of:
- Mining proposals, including large operational mines;
- Energy generation, storage and transmission infrastructure;
- Confidentiality agreements for commercial matters;
- Pastoral projects, and natural resource management;
- Port facilities, marine infrastructure and jetties; and
- Local Government, including public works and municipal infrastructure.
- Demonstrated excellence in all forms of resources and native title litigation, including:
- Consent Determinations and contested native title litigation in the Federal Court of Australia;
- Commercial mining litigation in the Supreme Court of South Australia; and
- Proceedings in the ERD Court under the Mining Act 1971 (SA).
- Acted in landmark litigation (including in the High Court of Australia) regarding the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988 (SA).
- Negotiated and secured certification for the first agreement approved by the South Australian Treasurer under the amendments to the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988 (SA).
- At the forefront of dealing with the new Recognised Aboriginal Representative Body (“RARB”) regime in South Australia.
Specialisations
- Advising industry in respect of regulatory matters regarding natural resources, energy, mining and infrastructure in South Australia.
- Engagement and consultation with relevant Aboriginal authorities (including Registered Native Title Bodies Corporate, Recognised Aboriginal Representative Bodies, and other companies and associations).
