Indigenous interests

The Basin has supported a long history of Aboriginal settlement and use, reflected today in the diversity of Aboriginal culture and the many areas of high cultural significance.

In South Australia there are approximately 7240 km² of Aboriginal land within the Lake Eyre Basin. This includes the Finniss Springs, Nantawarrina and eastern part of Pitjantjatjara lands. These areas are traditional homelands with occupants carrying out a range of commercial and traditional activities. The balance of the Lake Eyre Basin within South Australia is subject to native title claims.

In the Northern Territory there are over 8504 km² held by Aboriginal land trusts with further areas held under freehold title. These areas include the Arruwurra Aboriginal Corporation, Ltentye Apurte (Santa Teresa), Angarapa, Ltalaltuma and Roulmaulpma Aboriginal land trusts. The total area within the Northern Territory section of the Basin could well exceed 10000-12000 km².

In Queensland there are smaller Aboriginal settlements, mostly in the far western Queensland towns. A number of large areas are the subject of native title claims over much of the south west of Queensland.

The Lake Eyre Basin Agreement requires the appropriate representation of Indigenous Interests in the development and implementation of policies and strategies for the Basin. Indigenous interests are represented under the Agreement in numerous ways, including through representation on the Lake Eyre Basin Community Advisory Committee and the conduct of Lake Eyre Basin Aboriginal Forums.