Aboriginal Lands - Rules and Permits
There are many different Aboriginal lands and people - all of whom should be treated with respect.
Before entering, or crossing any Aboriginal Land (or Pastoral Lands) you should find out what is required in the way of a permit. If you are going to visit a community, find out what is required before entering, and preferably do some research on their beliefs and culture. This Booklet about some Aboriginal customs for more information see Visiting Aboriginal Land which has lots of information. See also National Parks
Conditions of entry/transit
Some Simple Rules
Northern Territory Permits
South Australia Permits
Western Australia Permits
Plain English By Laws for WA but could be applicable in any State
Community_By-Laws
Alcohol consumption – in any State there may be local laws to consider. In some parts of Australia it against local law to consume or carry any alcohol. Be aware that some Aboriginal Communities may have rules prohibiting alcohol and other substances, and those laws should be respected.
The following is from the Dept of Indigenous Affair in WA but would be much the same in other States. Respect the rights of others, plus obey the laws, Federal, State and local and you should have no trouble.
Travel by Road through Aboriginal Lands
Q: Can I deviate off the main road to visit other parts of the reserve?
A: No. Transit permits are issued to enable people to pass through the reserve on the most direct route. Sufficient time is allowed to enable the journey to be taken, e.g. up to three days to pass through the Central Reserves.
NOTE: Waiting on legalities in relation to Ngaanyatjarra Land Council issuing permits on behalf of ALT. If applicants wish to take another route other than the main road, the ALT is obliged to seek the approval of the resident Aboriginal community/ies before issuing a permit. This may take some considerable time.
Q: Can I camp on the reserves off the main road?
A: No. There are camping/stopover facilities for travelers along the road crossing the Central Reserves at Tjukayirla, Warburton, Warakurna and Docker River Roadhouses.
Conditions of entry/transit
You must carry your permit in your vehicle while on Aboriginal reserve land.
Off road access is not permitted.
Do not leave the established road unless you have specific permission to do so.
Travel through the reserve land as quickly as possible.
If you are visiting an Aboriginal community for any reason, the issue of a permit does not imply that the Traditional Owners/Community members have been advised of your intended visit. Please inform the Aboriginal community of your arrival, particularly in the Pilbara and Kimberley Reserves.
The permit is only valid for the purpose and dates specified.
You must observe all laws having application in Western Australia including Aboriginal Community by-laws if applicable.
Do not undertake any mining or prospecting (including fossicking) within reserve lands unless you have a specific permit to do so.
Do not acquire or seek any Aboriginal art, sacred objects or artifacts other than from an approved agency.
Refrain from photographic activity of community areas and residents within reserve lands unless you have the prior approval of the resident community.
Use of firearms within reserve lands is prohibited.
Hunting or fishing within reserve lands is prohibited unless you have the appropriate approvals.
Littering within reserve lands is prohibited.
Consumption of alcohol within reserve lands is prohibited without the appropriate approvals.
Note: Under the Aboriginal Communities Act 1979, any person who brings, possesses or consumes alcohol on Ngaanyatjarra land (Central Reserves), or supplies it to others, commits an offence.
It is not an offence to simply transport alcohol through Ngaanyatjarra lands.
See also Boating, Fishing, Mechanical, Mobile Communications, Motoring Associations, National Parks, Road Conditions, Safety, Sightseeing, State Borders, Towing Tips, and Weather.
