The Federal Court has upheld the appeal against the National Native Title Tribunal’s decision that proposed future acts for the Narrabri gas project may be done.
The Court has determined the National Native Title Tribunal erred at law by declining to have regard to evidence on climate impacts that was tendered on behalf of the Gomeroi applicant.
The Court did not find any findings in relation to Santos’ conduct, with the oil and gas giant noting it negotiated with the Gomeroi people “in good faith” at all times.
Next steps are yet to be made by the Court however Santos has noted the decision and stated its intention to continue engagement with the Gomeroi people.
“Santos will continue to engage constructively with the Gomeroi people and work closely with them to ensure their heritage is protected and they benefit from the project development, including through training and employment, and involvement in all aspects of cultural heritage protection and management,” the company said in a statement.
“Santos will also continue to work through land access, native title, pipeline licensing and remaining environmental approvals processes to get Narrabri and the Hunter Gas Pipeline ready for a final investment decision.”
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