Native title

The VGSO plays a central role in advising the Victorian Government on all matters related to native title claims – from settlement through mediation to the formulation of policy responses. We also advise on meeting Native Title Act obligations regarding infrastructure and other projects on Crown land and waters.

Adopting a multidisciplinary approach within the VGSO, other solicitors are consulted in areas such as Crown land management, cultural heritage, planning and corporate governance.

From 2001 to 2005 the specialist team worked on the first consent determination to recognise Native Title rights in Victoria, a historically significant decision. This was followed by a second consent determination made by the Federal Court on 30 March 2007.