The third and final phase of the Aboriginal cultural heritage co-design is under way, supporting the implementation of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2021.
The phase involves proposed guidelines to be discussed at more than 30 workshops across metropolitan, regional and remote communities.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Tony Buti said that the workshops, beginning next week (14 November), would provide a third and final opportunity for Aboriginal organisations, industry representatives and local communities to contribute to the design of key regulations and guidelines that would underpin the new Act.
“These documents will guide land users and proponents through the new system to protect Aboriginal cultural heritage when the new laws come into effect from mid-2023,” Mr Buti said.
“Matters to be finalised include the proposed Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Management Code which details the required due diligence assessment, proposed activity and consultation guidelines that set the standard for engaging Aboriginal people about their cultural heritage.”
He said setting tiers of ground disturbance activities that could cause harm to Aboriginal cultural heritage would be another key discussion, determining whether an approval would be required, and whether that should be a permit or a more comprehensive management plan.
“The Act provides for the establishment of local service providers giving Aboriginal people a statutory role in managing and protecting their local Aboriginal cultural heritage and putting them at the forefront of decision-making,” Mr Buti said.
The co-design period ends on 6 January, 2023 and further information can be accessed at this PS News link.
