About us

Finding Common Ground

About Finding Common Ground

The Treaty Authority has a role under Part I of the Treaty Negotiation Framework to resolve disputes related to Treaty negotiations. ‘Finding Common Ground’ is an approach to dispute resolution developed by the Treaty Authority.

It prioritises culturally responsive ways of dispute resolution through yarning and facilitated discussions. Finding Common Ground processes are confidential, trauma informed and aim to prioritise culture, build trust and support healing with Traditional Owners on the path to Treaty.

This guide was developed by the Treaty Authority to provide practical information on the Treaty Authority’s process for resolving disputes called ‘Finding Common Ground’.

What We Do

We work with Traditional Owners and other parties to support dispute resolution. Treaty Authority Members lead these processes, ensuring Aboriginal Lore, Law and Cultural Authority are respected and upheld.

Where disputes cannot be resolved through Finding Common Ground, the Treaty Authority can make a determination, as a matter of last resort.

Types of Disputes We Accept

Disputes in relation to:

Minimum Standards
Entries on the negotiations register
Delegation formation, collective agreement, or reconstitution
Preparations for and involvement in the negotiation process
The proposed interaction between local Traditional Owner Treaties and a Statewide Treaty
Formalising Treaty agreements

Disputes We Cannot Accept

Issues not connected to Treaty
Offensive or defamatory complaints
Inappropriate or trivial matters
Premature disputes where parties have not made attempts to resolve the dispute themselves
Unlikely to be resolved through dispute resolution

What to expect

After you lodge your dispute, the Treaty Authority will contact you to discuss your options and assess whether your dispute can proceed under the Treaty Negotiation Framework.

How to Lodge a Dispute

Lodge Online Here

You can also contact Finding Common Ground on 0408 066 458 or via [email protected]