Norton Rose Fulbright's team advises on the full range of native title and cultural heritage engagement matters, in particular those relating to the energy transition and traditional resources projects. Gavin Scott leads the team on matters concerning legacy issues, ESG risk management and global best practice engagement, particularly in the resources, infrastructure, and renewable sectors. Ellen Whittred regularly assists clients in developing strategic policies and advises on the full range of Indigenous issues, as well as undertaking negotiations with Indigenous groups. Jessica Rusten advises clients on the native title aspects of energy deals and complex issues that arise in negotiations with traditional owner groups.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The practice is unique because the team gives advice on how to build relationships with Traditional Owners and deal with them respectfully. NRF's team has a wealth of experience in this area and can help clients navigate this complex area.’
- ‘Gavin Scott has a wealth of experience in this area and is familiar with most of the Traditional Owner groups, so tends to have a sense of what their priorities are, and can help clients navigate this complex area.’
- ‘Friendly, approachable and knowledgeable ’
- 'NRF are a current, compassionate and expert advisor in this field.'
- ‘Gavin Scott and Jessica Rusten are great to work with - their turnaround time for urgent matters is excellent.’
- ‘Gavin Scott and Ellen Whittred are capable and sensible advisors who have deep practical experience re all First Nations issues. They are adept at navigating the nuances, sensitivities and complexities of this area of law.'
Key clients
- Rio Tinto
- Stockland Australia
- Western Green Energy Hub
- Powerlink
- Acciona
- Central Queensland Power
- Stanmore Resources
- Cape Flattery Silica Mines Pty Limited
- EDF Renewables Australia Pty Ltd
- ALFA (NT)
- Kullilli Bulloo River Aboriginal Corporation
- Stor-Energy
Work highlights
Representing Rio Tinto in Australia’s largest current native title compensation litigation relating to Rio Tinto’s historic mining projects in the Gove Peninsula in the Northern Territory.
Advising the client in the planning of a mass-scale wind and solar farm in South-East Western Australia and developing this with the Mining Native Title group.
Advised the development team client on the development of a best practice stakeholder engagement strategy to successfully develop a cultural heritage agreement with the Darumabal People, the traditional owners of the area on which the Moah Creek wind farm will be located.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Ellen Whittred
Practice head
Gavin Scott
Other key lawyers
Ellen Whittred; Jessica Rusten