The purpose of the ATSIHP Act is the preservation and protection from injury or desecration of areas and objects in Australia and in Australian waters, being areas and objects that are 'of particular significance' to Aboriginals in accordance with Aboriginal tradition. Legislation, Standards and Codes may be linked to one or more of the University's compliance frameworks either as the driver of the requirements, or as a component of the framework. The relevant frameworks are listed below.Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984 (Cth) - Level 4
The expression 'of particular significance' was modelled on the definition of the term 'sacred site' in the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976 (Cth).
The ATSIHP Act does not protect all forms of Indigenous heritage. For example, the Act does not protect:
- areas and objects whose heritage significance is due to their archaeological, scientific or historical interest, such as areas of past Aboriginal occupation, traditionally made tools, or old records.
- rock art or contemporary art that has no particular significance in Aboriginal tradition.
- natural heritage (including wildlife or biodiversity).
- intangible heritage (such as intellectual property and language).Relevant Compliance Frameworks
Summary