Chair Report.
“The board of NTSCORP is committed to providing excellence in corporate governance and the implementation of sound company policies that reflect our company charter.”
On behalf of the directors and members of NTSCORP, I acknowledge my Ngunnawal Elders, other Elders, native title groups and community groups of our representative area.
The current reporting period has been significant for the board, staff and Traditional Owners in the light of the election of a new federal government and the finalisation of a number of matters including the ratification of the Githabul Consent Determination and registration of the Byron Bay Bundjalung Peoples ILUAs. This has given the company impetus to continue to work for greater recognition of the rights and interests of Traditional Owners.
The board has overseen the transition of the company from our original company name NSW Native Title Services, to NTSCORP. It is our belief that the new company name will enhance the professionalism, dedication and determination of the board, executive and staff. The change in name responds to the changing face of native title and underpins the need for all stakeholders to work together. The signing of memorandums of understandings with QSNTS and NTSV reflect this philosophy. Our ability to respond to changes in the landscape of native title has also been enhanced by the addition of two new members to the board. Ms Gina Milgate, a Wiradjuri woman,
who has extensive experience in education with an emphasis on marketing and management and Mr Anthony Ashby, a Gamilaraay-Yuwaalaraay man who is a Chartered Accountant and a Registered Auditor. He has extensive experience in his field and Indigenous organisations.
The board of NTSCORP is committed to providing excellence in corporate governance and the implementation of sound company policies that reflect our company charter. This is essential in an environment of decreasing funding in real terms and reflects the need for long-term strategies that recognise alternative funding avenues.
On behalf of the board, I would like to take this opportunity to thank our CEO, Mr Warren Mundine, and all the NTSCORP staff for their hard work and dedication in a high pressure environment. I would also like to thank the board of directors for their continued support throughout the reporting period. It is my belief that the company will continue to draw on its existing strengths to provide a complete service to Traditional Owners in the pursuit of their rights under the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth). The company, directed by an Aboriginal board, can move together to ensure that future generations can share the benefits of these rights. Cooperation and understanding between all stakeholders, including all tiers of government, is essential to achieve equality and equity for all.
Michael Bell
Chairperson