Inspectors
Inspectors are appointed by the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs to investigate and monitor compliance with the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 and to enforce protection measures when necessary. Inspectors are also responsible for directing and overseeing Cultural Heritage Audits which assess compliance with a Cultural Heritage Management Plan or a Cultural Heritage Permit. In emergency situations Inspectors have the power to issue stop orders.
Inspectors have the power to gather relevant information to assist in the investigation of offences and prosecutions. In some circumstance this gives Inspectors:
- general powers to enter land or private premises
- search powers upon entry
- the power to seize objects or human remains
An Inspector is trained to a standard comparable to other authorised officers operating under similar Victorian legislation.
Inspectors must produce their identity card before exercising their powers. See Approved format for an Inspector's Identity Card (PDF 158 KB) or (Word 1.6 MB).
Learn more about Inspectors in the Information sheet on Inspectors & Enforcement (PDF 74 KB) or (Word 204 KB).
If you suspect harm is occurring or is likely to occur to an Aboriginal place or object please contact us immediately.