"On Country" Hearings

“Traditional evidence given by claimants during the hearing of native title claims and Aboriginal land claims is usually at a site located within or close to the area under claim. These hearings are commonly referred to as ‘on country’ hearings”.

“The hearing site may at times be located in very remote, spectacular regions of the Northern Territory . In such cases, the hearing is likely to take place outdoors beneath a tarpaulin or under whatever natural shade may be found. Parties may be required to camp out for the duration of the hearing. In addition, there may be one or more “site visits” to areas of particular significance requiring transport ranging from 4 wheel drive vehicles to boats and helicopters. The entire court, including hearing materials and transcription facilities and equipment, must necessarily be compact and mobile to enable transportation from one site to another”.

“The logistical exercise which makes on country hearings possible has been refined over the decades since hearings under ALRA commenced in 1977 and later adapted to native title hearings. The Division has a custom built trailer, which is outfitted to provide a completely self-sufficient camp, as well as swags and tent accommodation. Other equipment includes an engel, camp ovens, gas stove and some electrical appliances which may be run from a small generator”.