Land Tenure Research

The Unit researches land related records and compiles tenure history reports and maps of land parcels to assist with the resolution of Native Title and Aboriginal land claims.

The unit's primary client is the Northern Territory Department of Justice.

The Unit maintains databases of historical land tenure records and maps as well as the "tenure history report database" for job management purposes.

These databases, enable immediate advice of historic data over areas proposed for development or subject to native title application.

Where land is subject to proceedings in the National Native Tribunal or the Federal Court, the data researched by the Land Tenure Research Unit provides a basis for legal argument.

Where land is subject to development by the Northern Territory Government, the data researched by the Land Tenure Research Unit is used to assess the risk of possible Native Title interests or claims.

All data researched is entered into a business database from which "Tenure Reports" are generated.

The data is interrogated when new requests are received to save time and avoid repeating the research.

Tenure Reports comprise;

• A schedule of current and historic tenures affecting the subject parcel.
• A brief summary of the data contained in the schedule.
• Copies of tenure documents.
• Maps showing the location of historic tenure in relation to the subject parcel.

These records, in conjunction with ILIS (Integrated Land Information System) provide the initial basis for searching tenure history.

A project to provide a modern and more efficient method of digital tenure searching is underway. At this stage the electronic capture and geo-spatial referencing of historic maps and plans has been completed.