Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Victoria
CHMPs, Due Diligences, PAHTs, Cultural Value Assessment and Permits
Aboriginal cultural heritage management is the process of identifying, assessing, and protecting places, objects, and cultural landscapes that are significant to Aboriginal people in Victoria. For a full explanation of the terms used in this sector, see our Cultural Heritage Glossary.
Under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 and Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2018, proposed developments, infrastructure works, subdivisions, and other ground-disturbing activities must be assessed for cultural heritage requirements before works can begin. Where a project triggers the relevant thresholds, statutory approvals including planning permits and work authorities cannot be issued until heritage obligations are met.
The aim is to manage impacts to Aboriginal cultural heritage while allowing projects to proceed in a lawful, respectful, and practical way. Getting heritage management right early reduces the risk of project delays, ensures legal obligations are met, and supports decision-making that respects Traditional Owner values and connections to Country.
Strata Heritage provides the full range of Aboriginal cultural heritage services across Gippsland, Melbourne, and regional Victoria. Our services include Due Diligence assessments, Preliminary Aboriginal Heritage Tests (PAHTs), Cultural Heritage Management Plans (CHMPs), Cultural Heritage Permits, and Cultural Values Assessments. We work with developers, planners, builders, infrastructure providers, councils, Registered Aboriginal Parties, and private landowners to navigate the approvals process efficiently and confidently.
Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Services
Due Diligence
Preliminary Aboriginal Heritage Tests
Preliminary Aboriginal Heritage Tests
Considering a development project? A cultural heritage due diligence assessment identifies whether your project is located in an area of cultural heritage sensitivity and whether a CHMP or other approval may be required under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006. Strata Heritage can prepare a Due Diligence Report to support your planning permit application and help you understand your obligations before committing to the full approvals process.
Preliminary Aboriginal Heritage Tests
Preliminary Aboriginal Heritage Tests
Preliminary Aboriginal Heritage Tests
Not sure if you need a CHMP? A Preliminary Aboriginal Heritage Test (PAHT) provides a formal, binding determination from First Peoples – State Relations that a CHMP is not required for your project. A well-evidenced PAHT application is the difference between certification and refusal. Strata Heritage prepares PAHT applications to the highest standard, typically achieving a determination within 6–10 weeks.
Cultural Heritage Management Plan
Preliminary Aboriginal Heritage Tests
If your proposed project is a high impact activity located within an area of cultural heritage sensitivity, you will need a Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP). A CHMP assesses how your project may affect Aboriginal cultural heritage and sets out the management conditions required before, during, and after works. Strata Heritage manages the full CHMP process, from Notice of Intent through to approval.
Cultural Heritage Permit
Cultural Values Assessments
Where specific works need to proceed and there is a likelihood of harm to an Aboriginal place or object, and no CHMP is available or required, a Cultural Heritage Permit is needed. Strata Heritage prepares permit applications that meet the requirements of Part 4 of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006, helping clients achieve approval with minimal delay.
Cultural Values Assessments
Cultural Values Assessments
Cultural Values Assessments
Looking to understand and document the cultural values of an area? A Cultural Values Assessment provides a holistic record of the archaeological and anthropological values of a landscape, supporting community engagement, on-country mapping, and informed decision-making. Strata Heritage works collaboratively with Traditional Owner groups and Registered Aboriginal Parties to deliver assessments that are thorough, respectful, and practically useful.
Glossary and Resources
Understanding Aboriginal heritage legislation and the approvals process can be complex. The following resources have been prepared by Strata Heritage to help landowners, developers, planners, and councils navigate their cultural heritage obligations in Victoria.
Understanding Cultural Heritage Management Plans
A detailed guide to CHMP triggers, costs, timelines, and the approvals process under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006. Essential reading if you have been told you need a CHMP or are unsure whether one applies to your project.
Preliminary Aboriginal Heritage Tests (PAHT) Guide
This guide explains what a PAHT is, when it can be used, and how to prepare a strong application. A useful starting point if you are uncertain whether your project requires a CHMP.
Cultural Values Assessment Guide
An overview of Cultural Values Assessments, including when they are undertaken, what they involve, and how findings are used to protect and manage cultural heritage in the landscape.
Cultural Heritage Glossary
A plain language guide to the key terms used in Aboriginal cultural heritage management in Victoria, including definitions drawn from the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 and Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2018.