Overview
The Aboriginal Land and Waters (Jervis Bay Territory) By-Laws 2026 came into force on 20 August 2026. These by-laws are administered by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet under the Aboriginal Land and Waters (Jervis Bay Territory) Act 1986. They repeal and replace the Aboriginal Land Grant (Jervis Bay Territory) By-Laws 2016.
What the by-laws cover
The by-laws govern activities on Aboriginal Land in the Jervis Bay Territory. Topics addressed include:
- Biodiversity protection
- Town planning
- Permitted and prohibited activities
- Traffic rules
- Enforcement powers
- Permits
- Water and sewerage management
Offence provisions
Specific offence provisions for regulated activities on Aboriginal Land in the Jervis Bay Territory are contained in Parts 2 to 6 of the by-laws. Regulated activities referenced in the by-laws include operating a vehicle, conducting scientific research, camping, and fishing on Aboriginal Land in the Jervis Bay Territory.
Permits
The by-laws include provisions relating to permits for activities on Aboriginal Land in the Jervis Bay Territory. The source does not specify a transition period for permits or approvals granted under the 2016 by-laws.
Key actions
- The full text of the by-laws is available at https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2026L01062. Businesses operating on or near Aboriginal Land in the Jervis Bay Territory can review the by-laws there to check permit requirements for commercial activities, building work, or business operations.
- Holders of permits or approvals granted under the 2016 by-laws can seek clarification from the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet on whether those permits remain valid or require reapplication under the 2026 by-laws.
- Parties who operate a vehicle, conduct scientific research, camp, fish, or carry out any regulated activity on Aboriginal Land in the Jervis Bay Territory can review the specific offence provisions in Parts 2 to 6 of the new by-laws.
This is a plain-English summary for information only, not legal or compliance advice. Always check the official source or consult a qualified professional.