Update No. 4 of 2009 - 2010: 4 December 2009

 Mintabie Bill is passed by SA Parliament !!

 The South Australian Parliament yesterday passed the Mintabie Bill discussed at our recent Special General Meeting.

 The new Bill will become law shortly after it is proclaimed by the Governor. There are many improvements under the new law including:

• harder for non-Anangu to be able to go to, or live at Mintabie;
• police checks for all non-Anangu;
• no grog can be consumed outside the hotel. No take away;
• far better control of stores;
• higher revenue for traditional owners; and,
• easier to get rid of troublemakers
   

It now remains to see if traditional owners will agree to a new lease of Mintabie to the State Government. The original lease expired in 2006 and has been extended until February 2010.

The State Government put through the new Bill despite strong opposition.

APY stayed out of this debate so that we were not seen as lobbying in favour of the new Bill. Yes, APY did work with government on the new Bill but this was only to put Anangu in the strongest possible position if Traditional Owners decide to renew the lease.

Consultations about a further lease will start next year with Traditional owners for Mintabie with the hope of completing the consultations prior to our Annual General Meeting in March 2010.

APY acknowledges the support of State Ministers Holloway and Weatherill in trying to help Anangu by making things better in Mintabie.

Bernard Singer, APY Chairperson