The Premier, Don Dunstan (centre) and the Minister of Community Welfare, Mr Payne (far left) talking to Aboriginal leaders at a camp fire conference held at Yalata Aboriginal Reserve to discuss land rights. [This image, with an accompanying article, appeared in 'The Advertiser', 7 May 1977.]

Don Dunstan's progressive leadership as Attorney-General and Premier transformed South Australian politics and social policies. During the 'Dunstan decade' of the 1970s, numerous reforms were made in many areas, including equal opportunity and anti-discrimination legislation, and Aboriginal land rights.

The Pitjatjatjara Council met for the first time in July 1976. The Dunstan government began a process of consultation and negotiation with the Council regarding control of their lands in the far north-west of the state. Premier Dunstan visited Anangu people on their lands, and talked with them about the legislation his government was proposing. In 1978 legislation was introduced to recognise the traditional rights of Pitjantjatjara people to their lands.

There was a change of government before the Bill was passed, and Liberal policy regarding the land rights varied from that of the previous government. To ensure recognition of their rights, Anungu elders came to Adelaide in February 1980 (camping at the Victoria Park racecourse). Eventually legislation satisfactory to both parties received assent in March 1981. The Anungu took possession of their land - and South Australia became the first state to recognise land rights with a direct communal title.