The state government is inviting Victorian Traditional Owners to apply for positions on the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council and play a key role protecting Aboriginal cultural heritage for all Victorians including those in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay.
Treaty and First Peoples Minister Natalie Hutchins announced applications are open for four positions on the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council, which oversees management and protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage across Victoria.
The Council’s principal functions include, advising the Treaty and First Peoples Minister on Aboriginal cultural heritage in Victoria, making decisions about applications from Traditional Owners to become Registered Aboriginal Parties, overseeing the reporting and return of Ancestral Remains and Secret or Sacred Objects, and promoting public awareness and understanding of Aboriginal cultural heritage.
The eleven-person Council comprises Traditional Owners, ensuring Aboriginal people are making decisions about their own heritage in line with the principle of self-determination.
Victorian Traditional Owners who live in Victoria, who have extensive knowledge of Aboriginal cultural heritage, and who have time to commit to Council duties are encouraged to apply.
Minister Hutchins said the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council plays a vital role in “protecting the cultural heritage of the world’s oldest continuous culture.”
“Through the council, Victorian Traditional Owners are empowered to use their knowledge and experience to manage and protect cultural heritage delivering benefits to the entire Victorian community,” she said.
Information: aboriginalheritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/become-member-aboriginal-heritage-council.
