Growing calls for WA government to withdraw 'unacceptable' Aboriginal heritage bill
ABCCalls are growing louder for the WA government to withdraw its Aboriginal Cultural Heritage legislation, with close to 150 eminent Australians putting their name to a letter of concern. Key points: The proposed laws are currently before WA parliament 146 leaders have signed a letter of concern opposing the bill They say it's unacceptable in its current form Work to replace the outdated Aboriginal Heritage Act started years ago, but was not done in time to prevent the destruction of a sacred site at Juukan Gorge in WA's Pilbara region in May 2020. Bill 'unacceptable' in current form In the letter to WA Premier Mark McGowan, the 146 signatories stated that the Bill would not recognise, protect and preserve Aboriginal cultural heritage. "Respectfully, we request you to withdraw the Bill and ensure the law is co-designed with Aboriginal people to respect human rights and ensure a 'best practice' system to protect Aboriginal cultural heritage in our state."
History of this topic
Cook government to scrap Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act after months of controversy
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Fresh concerns over Aboriginal Heritage Act changes as WA landcare groups call off events
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What are WA's new Aboriginal cultural heritage laws, and how do they differ from the Voice?
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Ben Wyatt admits Aboriginal Heritage Act confusion but fears use as 'tool' to oppose Voice referendum
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PGA president Tony Seabrook calls on WA government to scrap new Aboriginal heritage law, as government rules out delay
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WA government stands firm on the state's new Aboriginal Heritage Act despite calls for delay
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WA Aboriginal heritage law passes but concerns remain it won't prevent another Juukan Gorge
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Tasmanian Government delays Aboriginal heritage changes bill until next year
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