What’s an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment?
An Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment is a process of identifying and managing cultural heritage sites and objects of significance to the Aboriginal communities in New South Wales. The significance of these cultural heritage sites and objects lies in their connection to the history, culture, and identity of the Aboriginal people. These sites and objects are considered to be an integral part of the Aboriginal cultural landscape and are protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 and the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972.
The Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment is a mandatory requirement for any development or activity that may impact Aboriginal cultural heritage within New South Wales. The assessment involves identifying whether an activity or development is likely to impact on Aboriginal cultural heritage and the measures that need to be taken to minimize or mitigate any potential harm.
The process is guided by the principles of consultation, collaboration and inclusion, and it promotes the involvement of Aboriginal people and communities in the identification, management and protection of their cultural heritage. The participation of Aboriginal people in this process is crucial, as it ensures that their views, knowledge, and perspectives on the significance of cultural heritage sites and objects are considered.
The assessment process involves the following activities:
Collating information from different sources to identify and document significant Aboriginal cultural heritage sites and objects within the proposed development or activity area.
Surveying the land to identify any visible signs of Aboriginal cultural heritage, such as rock art, stone arrangements, or burial sites.
Conducting oral history interviews with Aboriginal people and communities to identify any potential or known sites of cultural significance.
Engaging the community and stakeholders in consultation and collaboration throughout the assessment process to ensure that all voices are heard.
The importance lies in its potential to safeguard the cultural heritage of the Aboriginal people and ensure that it is appropriately managed and protected. The assessment helps to identify and document the historical and cultural significance of Aboriginal cultural heritage sites and objects.
It also helps to address the potential conflict that may arise between development activities and the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage. The identification of cultural heritage sites and objects early in the development process can help to avoid or minimize any potential harm to these sites and objects.
The assessment process also promotes the inclusion of Aboriginal people and communities in the management of their cultural heritage. The involvement of Aboriginal people in the assessment process ensures that their views and perspectives on cultural heritage are considered and respected.
In New South Wales, the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage is paramount, and is an essential tool to promote this protection. The process provides a robust framework for ensuring that Aboriginal cultural heritage is identified, managed and protected in a manner that respects the rights and interests of Aboriginal people and communities.
Overall, the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment is a critical process for protecting Aboriginal cultural heritage in New South Wales. It provides a framework for identifying, managing and protecting Aboriginal cultural heritage sites and objects, and it promotes the participation and inclusion of Aboriginal people and communities in this process. The importance of this process for safeguarding the cultural heritage of the Aboriginal people cannot be overstated. At East Coast Heritage and Archaeology, we know and understand the legislation and policy. We have conducted many assessments throughout the east coast. Contact us today to find out how we can help you.
