ASX-listed Renascor Resources has entered into an indigenous land use agreement (ILUA) with the Barngarla Determination Aboriginal Corporation (BDAC) – the registered native title body corporate of the Barngarla People, the traditional owners of land in the area encompassing the upstream portion of Renascor’s proposed vertically integrated Siviour graphite project, in South Australia.

Renascor’s proposed upstream mining operation includes desalination plant pipelines that cross native title land within the BDAC’s determination area.

The terms of the ILUA provide a cooperative framework between the BDAC and Renascor to respect Aboriginal heritage and support the BDAC community and provide the necessary native title consents to allow Renascor to proceed with its planned construction and operation of a desalination plant to support mining operations.

The ILUA includes monitoring and reporting protocols during the construction and operation of the proposed upstream portion of the project and the establishment of a community liaison manager to promote continued communication and collaboration between the BDAC and Renascor.

The ILUA also provides pathways for employment, training and contracting of members of the Barngarla people and for cultural awareness and communication and, subject to registration of the ILUA under the Register of Indigenous Land Use Agreements under part 8A of the Native Title Act 1993, the issuance of Renascor shares valued at $35 000.

“We have worked closely with the Barngarla people since the discovery of the Siviour graphite deposit, and I extend Renascor’s thanks to the Barngarla people for the cooperative engagement in reaching this agreement.

"This agreement builds on the collaborative relationship we have developed during the planning stages and provides a framework for ensuring continuing respect for Aboriginal heritage and opportunities for the Barngarla people as we advance to construction and operation,” comments Renascor MD David Christensen.

“Over the past four years, Renascor have steadfastly shown their commitment to transparent and genuine engagement with the BDAC in developing this milestone agreement, which is the first ILUA for a desalination project in South Australia.

"The BDAC looks forward to a continued respectful and productive collaboration with Renascor and working together to advance the Siviour project for our shared benefit, while ensuring our country and cultural heritage is protected and maintained,” adds BDAC chairperson Sonja Dare.