The Mantjintjarra Ngalia #2 native title claim in the north-east Goldfields was registered yesterday by the National Native Title Tribunal, having passed the rigorous registration test required for new claims under the Native Title Act.

The claim was first lodged in December 2006 after claimants agreed to a significant rationalisation of several claims in the area. The claim is represented by the GLSC.

"Achieving registration is a great pat on the back for the Mantjintjarra Ngalia people. They have persevered in the face of considerable obstacles and are now well on the way to realising their rights under the Native Title Act," said CEO Brian Wyatt.

"As with all native title claims managed by the GLSC, we will be alert to opportunities for settling the Mantjintjarra Ngalia #2 claim outside of the court process through a mediated or negotiated settlement, and we urge the State Government in particular to consider this option," Mr Wyatt said.

The decision means that the Mantjintjarra Ngalia #2 claim can now proceed to mediation with the State and other respondents with a view to resolving the claim through a native title determination.

Importantly, Mantjintjarra Ngalia #2 claimants now have access to the procedural rights available to them, including the right to negotiate future act proposals under the Native Title Act 1993.

Media contact: Brian Wyatt 0417 970413; David Berry 0417 963089