This is the completion of the first of a three-year implementation program. The Division develops short to medium term forecasts, based on advice from both the public and private sectors, with budgetary provision to enable the Department to respond to identified needs. A review of application fees be undertaken, to better reflect the costs of administration. Currently the number of rental collections involved is too few to make this a useful change, though consideration and assessment will be made again at end of year two. Consideration be given to alternatives for the management of Crown land, e.g. usage by adjoining owners on the basis of their maintaining it.
Recommendation is implemented as and when possible and appropriate.
Planned Outcomes Maintenance of a high level of service in respect of community living areas, land claims, native title and permits focus. The Program has worked closely with the Solicitor for the Northern Territory to provide instructions and coordinate detriment submissions to resolve land claims through the formal hearing process. The Barrow Creek claim was the only claim heard during the year. In October 1998, the Aboriginal Land Commissioner requested tenure history searches and any other available information, over a number of claims throughout the Territory, with a view to disposing of these claims in consultation with the Land Councils. The information was provided to the Commissioner on a continuing basis throughout the year.