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Fortescue founder claims signing Yindjibarndi royalty agreement risks creating 'alcohol disasters'

Michael Woodley (left) is leading the fight for compensation from FMG, led by billionaire Andrew Forrest. (ABC Pilbara: Amelia Searson)

Mining magnate Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest has defended not signing a native title compensation agreement with Yindjibarndi traditional owners in the Pilbara, saying it could lead to an Alice Springs-style "alcohol disaster". 

The Yindjibarndi people were awarded native title with exclusive possession by the Federal Court in 2017, and then beat an appeal against the decision by Fortescue Metals Group, which was founded by Mr Forrest. 

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