Indigenous

Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council

The Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council (the Council) was created under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 to ensure that Aboriginal people throughout Victoria play a central role in the protection and management of their heritage. The Council works with key partners to influence policy and build a better understanding and appreciation of Victoria’s rich Aboriginal heritage.

The Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council's strategic plan 2011-2014 (PDF 552 kb) or (Word 212 kb) was launched on 26 May 2011. It is the Council's second strategic plan, following the Council's strategic plan 2008-2011 (PDF 569 kb) which was launched on 28 May 2008.

Who are the Council Members?

The Council is made up of eleven Traditional Owners appointed by the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. All members are resident in Victoria, and have extensive knowledge and experience in cultural heritage management.

Learn about the individual members by reading the Council Member Biographies (PDF 65 kb) or (Word 50 kb). For other information about the Council itself, see the Aboriginal Heritage Council information sheet (PDF 279 kb) or (Word 247 kb).

What does the Council do?

The Council plays an important role in the implementation of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006. The Council:

appoints Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs)
provides advice to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs
provides advice to the Secretary of the Department of Planning and Community Development
evaluates Cultural Heritage Management Plans prepared by the Secretary
promotes public awareness about Aboriginal cultural heritage
manages dispute resolution

Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs)

The Council’s priority is to appoint Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs) throughout the state. RAPs are responsible for cultural heritage decisions at a local level.