Queenslanders are invited to have their say on a review of the state’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural heritage laws.   

Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Craig Crawford said it’d been nearly 20 years since the implementation of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Heritage Act 2003.

“We want to make sure we have modern and effective cultural heritage laws for the benefit of all Queenslanders,’’ Mr Crawford said.

“We’d especially like to hear your thoughts on ways First Nations people — as custodians of cultural heritage — can take a lead role in cultural heritage management and decision-making.”

Queensland’s cultural heritage laws provide a framework to protect and conserve cultural heritage – with more than 51,000 locations recorded across the state.

“We are home to two of the oldest living cultures on earth,’’ Mr Crawford said. 

“We need to modernise the legislative framework responsible for preserving the ancient cultural heritage of Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people in Queensland.

“Initial feedback in 2019 and 2020 provided a solid basis to inform options for further review.

“Now, we’d like to receive your feedback on our proposals for Queensland’s cultural heritage laws for the future.

“We want to achieve the right balance between protecting and conserving our state’s rich cultural heritage while achieving positive outcomes for Aboriginal, Torres Strait and non-Indigenous Queenslanders.”

To have your say on the proposed changes to Queensland’s cultural heritage laws, please visit: www.qld.gov.au/CulturalHeritageActsReview or call 1800 469 166 for options on how to get involved.

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Media contact: Peter Michael 0477 948 091