GLSC Executive Director Brian Wyatt will represent the National Native Title Council next week at the United Nations’ sixth session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues in New York .  

Mr Wyatt, chairperson of the National Native Title Council (NNTC), will be attending the forum as part of a delegation from Australia ’s Human Rights and Equal Opportunities Commission.  

The theme for this year’s forum is ‘Territories, Lands and Natural Resources’ where indigenous peoples organisations, such as NNTC, will have the opportunity to respond to their government’s report to the Economic and Social Council of the UN.  

Issues likely to be canvassed at this year’s forum include the draft UN Declaration of Rights for Indigenous Peoples, and indigenous peoples’ cultural and intellectual property rights.  

“Clearly enunciated rights and proper respect for them by governments, is a critical first step along the road to social and economic parity for indigenous peoples,” Mr Wyatt said.  

“Having a code of rights enshrined in international law will provide critical leverage for uplifting living standards and life opportunities in general for indigenous peoples, including Australia ’s Aboriginal people.”  

The National Native Title Council is the peak body representing Australia ’s Federal Government-recognised Native Title Representative Bodies (NTRBs), including the GLSC, as well as Native Title Service Providers. Incorporated in 2006, the NNTC is active on matters of national significance affecting the native title rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. 

Media Contact:  Brian Wyatt 0417 970413;    David Berry 0417 963089, 9263 8715