Coober Pedy Waste Depot

The Hon. J.A. DARLEY (15:12): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation questions regarding native title.

Leave granted.

The Hon. J.A. DARLEY: On 11 May 2011, the Antakirinja Matu-Yankunytjatjara were recognised as the traditional owners of approximately 76,000 square kilometres in and around Coober Pedy. Following this decision, I understand the government had determined all locations of significance to the traditional owners in and around this area and that a list of these sites is kept confidential for fear of site desecration.

I have been advised that the traditional owners have recently objected to the site of the recently established Coober Pedy dump as it is located, or partly located, on a significant site. I understand an alternative site is being investigated; however, to date, no alternative site has been identified. I am further advised that, if an alternative cannot be found, Coober Pedy's waste will have to be trucked over 500 kilometres away to Port Augusta. My questions are:

1. Can the minister advise whether an alternative site for the dump has been found and, if not, when can this be expected to be resolved?

2. Have any other alternatives, other than what I have outlined above, been investigated for managing Coober Pedy's waste?

3. Will the government provide any economic assistance to either establish a new dump or to contribute to the ongoing cost of trucking Coober Pedy's waste to Port Augusta?

The Hon. I.K. HUNTER (Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation, Minister for Water and the River Murray, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation) (15:14): Again, I need to advise the house that responsibility in terms of native title rests with the Attorney-General in the other place. Consequently, I will take the question on notice and seek a response from the Attorney in the other place and bring it back for the honourable member.