Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation (ANTaR) has congratulated the Yaruwu people of Broome on their historic native title compensation agreement signed in Broome 25 February 2010. “The Yaruwu agreement with the Western Australian Government is a fantastic achievement, with win-win outcomes,” said ANTaR National President, Dr Janet Hunt. “This agreement provides the basis for the Yaruwu people to advance their goals for the wellbeing of their people, while enabling Broome to expand as a tourism and industry centre, including with a new airport. “Back in the early days of Native Title the fearmongers were arguing that Native Title would halt development. This agreement demonstrates again that everyone can win when the rights of Indigenous people are respected and taken seriously. “ Dr Hunt noted that the Yaruwu people want to use the land and funds they are gaining to strengthen their culture and to improve the living standards of their people – to be on an equal footing with the rest of Australia. “This agreement also shows that the old argument about the rights agenda not delivering any practical outcomes is nonsense. Indigenous rights can be the foundation for Indigenous people’s economic and social advancement. “The Yaruwu people and the Western Australian Government are to be congratulated for their achievement.” Media contact: Dr Janet Hunt: 0408 170 448 (Canberra) Stephen Hall: 0408 426 263 (Perth)