The Cultural Authority serves as the primary point of contact for Yamatji Entities seeking advice on cultural decisions. It comprises of 24 representatives from the four Native Title groups, bringing together all the Cultural Committee groups into a united body.
Role and Function of the Cultural Authority:
Establishment and Purpose: The Cultural Authority was established under the cultural governance framework that facilities self-governance, self-determination and self-development, with a structure akin to traditional ways of decision-making, negotiation and problem solving. The Cultural Authority is governed by the Terms of Reference.
Cultural Decision-Making: This body is designed and developed by and for the Yamatji Nation, adhering to traditional laws and customs. It consults with the Yamatji Nation and informs Yamatji Entities on cultural decisions.
Scope of Decisions: A cultural decision made by the Cultural Authority is one that will materially affect the land or waters within the ILUA agreement area or significantly impact the rights of the Yamatji Nation under traditional law and custom.
The Cultural Authority ensures that the cultural values and traditions of the Yamatji Nation are respected and integrated into decision-making processes, thereby safeguarding the cultural heritage and rights of the Yamatji Nation.
Cultural Authority
Cultural Authority
All Cultural Committee members are part of the Cultural Authority, totalling 24 Committee Authority members.
Cultural Committees
6 individuals from each claim group (Hutt River, Mullewa Wadjari, Southern Yamatji and Widi Mob) are part of the Cultural Committee.
Joint Management Body
2 members from each Cultural Committee, totalling 8 Joint Management Body Members.