Larrakia Nation Aboriginal Corporation has welcomed the federal government's decision to return the former Stokes Hill Fuel Installation to Larrakia people, following sustained advocacy by the Corporation.

On Monday, Larrakia Nation Aboriginal Corporation (LNAC) chief executive Michael Rotumah thanked Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles, Minister for Finance Senator Katy Gallagher, and Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy for the move.

"This is a significant step towards addressing historical dispossession and recognising Larrakia people's enduring connection to Country," Mr Rotumah said.

"We thank the Commonwealth Government for listening to Larrakia Nation, particularly Minister McCarthy for her support and Minister Gallagher for her constructive engagement.

"We honour the generations of Larrakia Elders and custodians who have continued to fight for the protection and return of their Country."

LNAC formally sought the return of surplus Defence land in March 2026.

Following a meeting with Minister Gallagher, it submitted an August proposal seeking the transfer of Stokes Hill, surplus land at Defence Establishment Berrimah and Kowandi to the Larrakia Land Trust.

"Returning the land must be accompanied by Commonwealth-funded remediation, rehabilitation and ongoing protection of this significant sacred site, guided by Larrakia custodians," Mr Rotumah said.

"We look forward to working with the Commonwealth and Larrakia custodians to progress the transfer and secure these commitments.

"We will continue advocating for the return of surplus land at Berrimah and Kowandi, alongside a long-term partnership that delivers lasting cultural, social and economic benefits for Larrakia people."

On December 1 last year, Larrakia Elders Bill Risk OAM and Helen Secretary appealed to the federal Minister of the Environment and Water to safeguard the Stokes Hill sacred site against damage and desecration. The Elders, represented by the Northern Land Council, made an application on behalf of all Larrakia people under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984 (ATSIHP Act).

The next day, it was announced a hotel planned for the Darwin waterfront which threatened the site had been abandoned.