Rights and Recognition

As part of our commitment to strengthening our cultural ties, rebuilding kinship connections, and elevating each other, the Yiradyuri Corporation is actively engaged in a multifaceted approach to increase the rights and recognition of Southern West Yiradyuri. This involves the preparation of a Native Title application and engaging in nation-to-nation agreement making.

1. Native Title Application (2024): In a landmark move, the Yiradyuri Corporation is preparing to lodge a Native Title application in 2024. This crucial step aims to secure recognition of our unbroken connection to Country and Culture, ensuring the preservation of our cultural heritage and the continued practice of Culture. We invite all knowledge holders and Community interested in being part of the claim group to reach out to the Corporation. Coming together to strengthen our collective voice can have a positive impact on us all.

2. Nation-to-Nation Agreements: Building on the commitment to nation-to-nation agreements, the Yiradyuri Corporation is actively reaching out to neighbouring communities. These discussions focus on creating shared country areas, fostering collaboration, and establishing frameworks for respectful relations that existed before invasion of our respective Country. The corporation envisions these agreements as a means to rebuild and strengthen kinship connections, recognising the diverse and shared history, culture and ceremony that contribute to the rich tapestry of our collective being. Underpinned by lore, our approach is one of respect, love and patience – we aim to be well underway with the neighbour agreement making before submitting our native title application. We encourage neighbouring Traditional Owner Corporations that we unintentionally haven’t reached out to, to contact us.

3. Membership and Community Engagement: As we embark on this transformative journey, the Yiradyuri Corporation extends an open invitation – for descendants of Southern West Yiradyuri Apical Ancestors, and our Kinship Community who have live on Southern West Yiradyuri Country for more than a generation or 25 years – to join as members. Your involvement is not only a show of support but also a commitment to actively contribute to the vision of recognition, empowerment, and cultural preservation to ensure our future generations have access to Country, Culture and our Sacred Ceremony places. Together, we can create a united front that amplifies our voices and ensures a sustainable and prosperous future for all.

4. Treaty Processes: In alignment with broader efforts, the Yiradyuri Corporation acknowledges the ongoing federal and state-based treaty conversations both nationally and across New South Wales (NSW). Recognising the importance of being ready to engage in this process, we emphasise the need for a strong and focused vision. The Corporation is committed to working collaboratively with all levels of government, communities, and stakeholders to ensure that our voice is heard and our cultural aspirations are central to evolving treaty discussions.

5. Proof of Aboriginality: The Corporation’s members are known and accepted as being Aboriginal in accordance with Yiradyuri cultural protocols. The Corporation does not provide Certificate’s of Aboriginality. A letter can be provided to members confirming their membership of the Corporation.