The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) has enacted significant cuts to Native Title Services across the country.

Key points:

• NIAA has cut funding to Native Title services by up to 24 per cent
• The funding formula was not communicated to the organisations until the decisions were announced 
• The Agency reportedly acknowledges the formula may need review, but cuts come into effect July 1

National Indigenous Times understands the NIAA did not communicate the formula used to determine funding in the Grant Opportunity Guidelines published 9 February, and instead revealed it once the funding decisions were announced on May 28-29.

Central Desert Native Title Services Chair Dr Guy Singleton said on Thursday that the NIAA advised Central Desert Native Title Services (CDNTS) on May 29 of a 24 per cent reduction to current funding levels, taking effect on the 1 July 2026.

"Our ability to deliver core statutory functions under Part 11 of the Native Title Act (1993) will be materially reduced, including the facilitation of agreement-making, future act matters (including heritage services), compensation matters and broader protection and advancement of native title rights and interests," he said.

"This reduction puts at risk Native Title Parties ability to exercise their native title rights, including proponent negotiations, agreement making and heritage approvals.

"Native Title Parties in the Central Desert region remain heavily reliant on CDNTS for support and services. Many do not have their own staff and have limited funding.

"We are currently in discussion with the NIAA on rectifying this issue, though presently no agreement has been reached."

Central Desert Native Title Services is one of 14 services impacted by the new funding model.

National Indigenous Times understands the NIAA has conceded the funding formula may need review, but the cuts come into effect in less than two weeks.

National Indigenous Times sent a series of questions to the NIAA requesting details on the funding cuts, the funding formula, and on communication between the Agency and Native Title services. The NIAA did not directly answer any of the questions.

In its response, the Agency noted it "funds 14 native title representative bodies and service providers to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in native title matters".

"The Australian Government will provide $409.6 million over three years from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2029 to native title representative bodies and service providers for delivery of core functions," the NIAA told National Indigenous Times.

"NIAA has provided initial funding allocations, with work continuing to ensure bodies are supported appropriately.

"The Australian Government remains committed to a strong and sustainable native title sector and continues to support representative bodies, service providers and Prescribed Bodies Corporate to assist native title holders to realise their rights and pursue economic opportunities."

National Indigenous Times contacted the office of Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy for comment.