Biraban Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC) and Landcom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which will see both parties work in partnership to identify and unlock projects in the Hunter region that will deliver increased housing affordability, supply, and diversity in the interest of Biraban’s Members and the wider Lake Macquarie and Newcastle community.
Biraban LALC Chair, Edward Smith said, together with Landcom we want to develop our lands not only for housing but also commercial and industrial uses so we can deliver social and economic outcomes back to our community.
“We want to provide opportunities for future generations and deliver projects that are ecologically sensitive, culturally aware, and sustainable in honour of the aspirations of our elders past and present,” Mr Smith said.
“While it is too soon to identify what land will be developed, we will not only be working with Landcom but importantly our members as we embark on this journey.”
Landcom CEO John Brogden said the partnership is one built on mutual trust, reciprocity, and positive commercial outcomes.
“The MoU enables Landcom to contribute its expertise in master planning and development on Biraban land to support commercial outcomes for the LALC,” Mr Brogden said.
“It is also the first MOU Landcom has signed with a Local Aboriginal Land Council in Regional NSW. Reaffirming the NSW Government’s commitment to tackling affordability in the regions.”
With the signing of the MoU, Biraban and Landcom will now begin the process of identifying land suitable for development. Any projects will progress through the protocols governing Local Aboriginal Land Councils and then the regular development process.
As part of the MoU, Biraban and Landcom will be lodging a joint submission to the Draft Hunter Regional Plan 2041. As part of this submission, we will be reinforcing the need to create a resilient, and equitable Hunter that connects and cares for Country.
