Chapter 5 - Conclusion

5.1 In compiling this report, the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Native Title and the Torres Strait Islander Land Fund has discharged its statutory obligation to examine the Annual Reports of the NNTT and the ILC as well as the Annual Report on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Land Fund.

5.2 Chapter Two of the report includes the Committee's observations on the Annual Report of the NNTT. The Committee continues to be concerned at the estimates of expenditure and volume of work, but understands that the Tribunal is working towards more accurate assessments of these items. The Committee notes the unqualified audit result, and the detail given in both the report and in evidence to the Committee, which gives a fuller picture of the organisation than is possible from an adherence only to the minimum reporting requirements.

5.3 Chapter Three of the report examines the ILC's performance over the year. The ILC's report was a most professional document, which in most cases noted the reservations expressed in last year's report and acted upon them. Although the report complied with the requirements in most cases, the Committee took the view that more information on the properties, their capacity, the value of stock, machinery and other assets is necessary if the Committee is to evaluate the success or otherwise of the ILC's strategies.

5.4 Chapter Four looks at the performance of the Land Fund. The Committee considered that, on current indications, the Fund is well placed to become self sufficient as planned.

Senator David Johnston
Committee Chair