Discussion paper : reviewing the interim community consultation requirements for applicants for Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permits.

Abstract

An Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit (AHIP) is required if an activity is likely to impact on Aboriginal objects or places. The Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) issues AHIPs under Part 6 of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NPW Act). The Interim Community Consultation Requirements for Applicants (the interim document), attached here as Appendix 1, was released in December 2004. This interim document was aimed at ensuring that there was adequate and reasonable consultation between applicants seeking an AHIP, and Aboriginal communities and individuals that may be affected. It was developed to meet an immediate need, and did not involve broad internal or external engagement. Concerns about the interim document have been raised with DECC staff by the Aboriginal community, applicants, agencies and consultants, which indicate that the current interim document does not meet its intended purpose.