Let's start this war right from here - as Teddy Roosevelt Jnr said on D-Day ..... no way their ancestors could have controlled all that.. this Tribunal though - that'll be stacked.  Adios Victoria -you bought and paid for it at election.

https://www.msn.com/en-au/news/australia/indigenous-elders-launch-sweeping-native-title-claim-that-covers-most-of-melbourne/ar-AA1Q7gfr?ocid=winp2fptaskbar&cvid=f9864118c7b94d15ad58241306541316&ei=12

Indigenous elders launch sweeping native title claim that covers most of Melbourne

Indigenous elders have launched a sweeping native title claim covering most of Melbourne and several other regions across Victoria.

The claim was lodged by 11 members of the Wurundjeri people in the Federal Court on Friday.

It covers more than 10,000 square kilometres of land stretching from the Great Dividing Range to the Macedon Ranges, across to the Yarra Valley and Mount Baw Baw, and down to Port Phillip Bay.

Major Crown land sites within the claimed area include the MCG, several shopping centres, and multiple golf courses, public parks, and beaches.

The legal move applies only to Crown land and does not affect private homes, businesses, or infrastructure.

However, Indigenous elders would have significant influence over how affected land and waterways are managed.

They would also have the final say in the protection of 'culturally significant sites,' which could impact how fire management is implemented in bushfire-prone forest zones.

If successful, the title claim would grant recognised traditional owners rights under federal law, including decision-making power over public land use and the right to be consulted on activities within those areas.

The claim will be considered by the National Native Title Tribunal.

Additionally, there are six other native title applications before the Federal Court in Victoria, which collectively cover most of the state.

Law firm Slater and Gordon is representing the latest native title claim, which relies on historical evidence showing the 'Wurundjeri people's connection to country.'

It has also been reported that evidence showing elders have passed down knowledge of the land, ceremony, fishing, hunting, language, and art — ensuring cultural continuity - will be presented to the court.

Wurundjeri elder Di Kerr said the process was about 'ensuring our connection to country is recognised in law, as it has always existed in truth.'

'We're very proud that this process is happening, and we want to walk together,' Dr Kerr told The Guardian.

'We don't want it to be separate. We want to have partnerships with governments and Parks Victoria so we can co-manage and look after that country.'

The Wurundjeri people had been at the forefront of protecting culture and Country in Melbourne and surrounds for decades, elder Perry Wandin said.

'It is now time for the traditional lore and customs of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people to be recognised,' he said.