Two-tiered heritage protection in Australia strikes the wrong note

The Government of Western Australia has made itself look tin-eared at best and racist at worst in reportedly tabling draft legislation that would reinforce a two-tiered system of heritage protection in the state. In effect, the law - if enacted - would ensure that sites whose significance derives from their connection with Aboriginal tradition or culture are not subject to protection under the Heritage Act. Instead, the recognition and care of Aboriginal sites fall under another piece of legislation, the Aboriginal Heritage Act.

Wandjina Rock Art, The Kimberley, Western Australia

 

According to the WA Heritage Minister, the move is motivated simply by a desire to avoid unnecessary duplication of regulation. However, archaeologists and Aboriginal community leaders note that the two laws are not comparable and the protection available under the Aboriginal Heritage is considerably weaker than that which protects European sites.

Although perhaps well-intentioned, the result is a government which appears ready to perpetuate the notion that Aboriginal culture is somehow "second-class." Given the legacy of colonialism and exploitation of Aboriginal people in Australia, there must surely be a better way to cut back on red tape.