'Don't make the same mistake': Traditional Owners' warning over renewable projects on Aboriginal land

November 22, 2022 10:14 AM

First Nations experts and Traditional Owners say the federal government must properly consult and share benefits with Aboriginal people in the development of the new green economy.

Traditional Owners and Aboriginal sustainability experts have warned the Australian government against making the same "mistake" it did with fossil fuel mining, and to properly consult First Nations leaders before developing renewable energy projects on their land.

It came as Indigenous activists from across the planet called on governments to respect First Nations' land rights during COP27 - the United Nation's annual climate conference.

Experts say coal and gas projects, which have received bipartisan support from Australian governments, have gone ahead on Aboriginal land without their approval and without equal sharing of benefits.

With the transition to green energy and an influx of investment into renewable projects, Dr Heidi Norman, convener of the Indigenous Land and Justice Research Hub, told SBS News that now is the "best opportunity for Australia to rethink its relationship with Aboriginal people".

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