The Gomeroi people have achieved a landmark victory in their fight against Santos’ gas project on traditional lands.  

The Federal Court overturned a Native Title Tribunal judgement that authorised Santos to proceed with the project in the Pilliga region, in north-western New South Wales. 

The Federal Court’s decision marked a significant milestone in the Gomeroi’s years-long fight against the mining giant, and was remarkable in a number of ways. Firstly, the decision was the first time in NSW history a Native Title Tribunal judgement had been overturned on appeal. It also established climate change as a legitimate factor for courts to consider when evaluating the “public interest” in native title cases. 

The successful appeal hinged on the expert testimony of Dr Will Steffen, a prominent climate scientist who tragically passed away recently. The Federal Court deemed the Native Title Tribunal’s dismissal of Dr Steffen’s evidence regarding the project’s impact on climate change to be a critical error. 

However, while the decision is a major cause for celebration for the Gomeroi people and environmental activists, the fight continues to have the project cancelled.  

Another court appearance is scheduled in two weeks to determine whether the entire process will be scrapped or if the parties involved will be directed back to the negotiation table. 

The NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association supports the Gomeroi people’s fight for self-determination and environmental justice. You can find out more about the NSWNMA’s commitment to climate and health here.