Ausgold (ASX:AUC) entered into a binding consultation and cooperation agreement with the Wagyl Kaip Southern Noongar Aboriginal group in relation to its Katanning gold project in Western Australia, according to a Thursday Australian bourse filing.

The agreement will establish a framework for ongoing consultation and cooperation between Ausgold and the indigenous group to support the development, construction, and operation of the project, the filing said. It will provide a framework under which the company will engage on commercial terms to undertake cultural heritage survey.

The indigenous group is the holder of the indigenous land use agreement for the Wagyl Kaip Southern Noongar region, representing the Wagyl Kaip Southern Noongar People.

Ausgold's shares rose nearly 3% in recent trading on Thursday.