Protecting Aboriginal heritage

Aboriginal sites are a precious part of the heritage of the whole community. They are of immense cultural, scientific, educational and historic interest.

Aboriginal heritage sites provide Aboriginal people today with an important link to their culture and past.

Aboriginal sites are also fragile and can easily be damaged. When they are destroyed or damaged information about past cultural and environmental changes may be lost forever. In many cases, information about the past occupation of Australia can only be obtained through the archaeological investigation of these sites.

Caring for Country

Aboriginal heritage sites can be at risk of impact either from natural processes, such as erosion or from human action, such as regular visitation from tourists or development.

Every year thousands of tourists flock to regional Western Australia from across the State, country and the globe to experience more than 45,000 years of Aboriginal history first hand.

DIA has released Ten Tips for Travellers on how to enjoy WA's Aboriginal cultural heritage while ensuring it is protected. These include advice on protocols when travelling to Aboriginal communities, applying for permits and how to respect Indigenous sites. WA's Aboriginal heritage and culture is precious and by following these simple tips, travellers can help ensure it will be protected for generations to come.

Aboriginal heritage management plans

Protecting a site from erosion or other natural damage or from human activities such as development plans requires some form of management if the site is to retain its integrity and be preserved for the future. Establishing an Aboriginal heritage management plan can contribute to site protection.