The Central Land Council (CLC) has launched an appeal over the controversial Singleton Station groundwater licence.

In a recent decision by the Northern Territory Supreme Court, a challenge by native title holders against the Northern Territory government's approval of a 40,000 megalitre per year water licence to Fortune Agribusiness was dismissed. 

The licence, intended for one of Australia’s largest fruit farms, has sparked controversy over its environmental impact and adherence to Aboriginal cultural values.

Josie Douglas, CLC General Manager, says native title holders are steadfast in their opposition. 

“[The native title holders] won't rest until the water licence is determined to be invalid,” Douglas said, highlighting concerns over the disproportionate benefits to the developer and the overstated advantages to local communities. 

The appeal seeks to review the original judgement's interpretation of the Water Act, licence conditions, and the consideration of native title holders' cultural values.

The case is part of broader anxieties about the Northern Territory's water laws. 

Dr Douglas criticised these laws as inadequate, suggesting they fail to meaningfully integrate water planning processes or Aboriginal consultations. Other critics worry about the licence's potential impact on water ecosystems and Aboriginal culture and country. They also question the projected job numbers and point to the extensive environmental and cultural risks associated with the venture.

Water Security Minister Kate Worden has partly responded, highlighting the strength of the Territory's water resource management but refusing to comment directly on the ongoing legal matter due to a conflict of interest.

Fortune Agribusiness has expressed respect for the legal process while defending the project's potential to generate significant employment opportunities. 

The Arid Lands Environment Centre (ALEC) has decided against appealing the Supreme Court's decision but says it will continue its opposition through other avenues. 

Adrian Tomlinson, ALEC CEO, has outlined a strategic shift towards the Ali Curung Water Justice Project and advocating for a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement.