Richard Abraham
Special Counsel, Brisbane
I lead MinterEllison's native title practice, working with clients across the resources, infrastructure, utilities, property development and government sectors in relation to native title and Aboriginal cultural heritage matters.

As an experienced native title lawyer, I negotiate agreements and assist clients to develop and implement strategies for engaging and developing sustainable long term relationships with traditional owner groups and their representatives.

I also assist Government and private sector clients with land access arrangements for mining, pipeline and infrastructure projects.

Prior to joining MinterEllison, I was a senior native title lawyer with the Queensland Government. I have also held legal, regulatory and consulting positions with Government and industry participants in the power industry.

Career Highlights

Native title and Indigenous cultural heritage

  • Mining and resources – I have advised mining and resources clients on native title and Indigenous cultural heritage compliance in relation to exploration and mining activities and acquisitions.
  • Government asset sales – I have advised State Governments on native title and Indigenous heritage issues in relation to the leasing of significant State owned assets (including ports and electricity infrastructure).
  • Government infrastructure projects – I have advised Government agencies in relation to native title and Aboriginal cultural heritage issues associated with the delivery of significant road and rail projects.
  • Private infrastructure projects – I have advised proponents regarding native title issues associated with infrastructure projects including extinguishment analysis and consideration of potential disruption points in the native title processes.
  • Property – I have advised project proponents on native title and Indigenous cultural heritage compliance and agreements for developments.

Land access

  • Pipeline corridors – I have advised Government clients regarding access arrangements for infrastructure corridors.
  • Compensation agreements – I have assisted clients to implement landholder compensation agreements for mining projects.