Recommendation 115

Australian governments have enacted laws to protect the cultural heritage of Australia’s Indigenous peoples, including archaeology. At all levels of government work is being conducted to preserve and promote the history, culture and language of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Information about the Australian Government’s work around the country can be found on the Culture and capability page on the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet website.

The Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies works to preserve and promote cultural and linguistic heritage through collections, records, research and publications. The Institute is established and run by the Australian Government to undertake this vital work. Information on the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies website.

Through the Indigenous Languages and Arts program, the Australian Government is supporting the preservation and use of Indigenous languages. Information about the funding can be found on the Indigenous arts and languages page on the Department of Communications and the Arts website.
For information on state and territory policies and programmes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, visit:

• Australian Capital Territory – Office of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs
• New South Wales – Office of Communities—Aboriginal Affairs
• Northern Territory – Office of Aboriginal Affairs
• Queensland – Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships
• South Australia – Department of Premier and Cabinet, Aboriginal Community Advice and Support,
• Tasmania – Department of Premier and Cabinet, Office of Aboriginal Affairs
• Victoria – Department of Premier and Cabinet, Aboriginal Victoria
• Western Australia – Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage