A decision by the United Nations Human Rights Committee has criticised the Federal Court for breaching the rights of an Aboriginal native title claim group.
While the UN committee's decision is non-binding, it puts pressure on the Australian government, particularly if criticising other countries on human rights. And, potentially, raises questions about the native title system.
A spokesperson from the Attorney-General's department said the Australian government takes seriously its human rights obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and is considering the committee's views, with a response expected in the next month.
