Catchwords:

NATIVE TITLE – extinguishment – compensation – whether extinguishment occurred (i) under legislation vesting land in South Australia or (ii) pursuant to resumption under the Public Works Act 1912 (NSW)

STATUTORY INTERPRETATION – legislative purpose – whether land vested in South Australia for an estate in fee simple under the River Murray Waters Act 1915 (NSW) – right to compensation under the Public Works Act 1912 (NSW) – whether possessory title and any other interests extinguished

STATUTORY INTERPRETATION – approaches – whether literal reading appropriate – whether a particular construction would be contrary to the purpose of an Act