Lands Minister Brendon Grylls has welcomed this week’s historic native title in-principle agreement with the Yawuru people in Broome.

“This agreement will pave the way for the future expansion of Broome’s townsite and importantly ensure the town is well placed to benefit from future resources projects,” Mr Grylls said.

‘We want to make sure there is enough land supply in the future to meet the needs of a growing population and ensure a variety of affordable housing options are available.

“LandCorp and the Department for Planning and Infrastructure’s (DPI) State Land Services have been working closely with the Shire of Broome on future planning and development and, in particular, on land parcels to the north of the existing townsite.

“LandCorp has already commenced the planning process and the necessary preliminary studies have been commissioned.”

The studies would feed into detailed concept planning to include consultation with native title holders and the community.

One of the lead Yawuru negotiators, Mr Peter Yu, said this was an important milestone for the Yawuru community of native title holders and the community of Broome and they were looking forward to maximising the opportunities that would arise once the final agreement was settled.

“We would welcome the interests of developers and other corporates in regards to future land development,” Mr Yu said.

Preliminary plans for the Broome North land included more than 1,000 homes to suit a range of needs and budgets, as well as schools and extensive parklands, retail and commercial space and an extension to the existing Blue Haze light industrial area.  The first land releases were expected in 2012.

The need for a range of land uses, including quality affordable rental accommodation for service workers (for example, those employed in retail, hospitality and not-for-profit sectors) and tourism development opportunities, would be considered during concept planning.

Shire president Graeme Campbell said the shire was looking forward to continuing its productive working relationship with Yawuru Native Title Holders Aboriginal Corporation, DPI and LandCorp to ensure future land supply and guide the sustainable growth of the town.

“We are working hard to ensure locals have a choice of housing available to them at realistic prices so we can retain families and young people in the town and that Broome’s future growth is planned for and well managed,” Mr Campbell said.

The process would also identify opportunities for private developers likely to play a significant role in the development of the area by providing diverse product and increased competition and capacity.

Minister's office  - 9213 7000

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