How to complete an Aboriginal Due Diligence Assessment in line with the Due Diligence Code of Practice for the Protection of Aboriginal Objects in NSW (2010)
- Anyone who has not already undertaken an Aboriginal heritage assessment (e.g. environmental impact assessment) that meets the standards of the Due Diligence Code.
- Individuals or organisations planning activities that may disturb land or harm Aboriginal objects.
- Land managers, developers, planners, and consultants who need to determine whether their activities require an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit (AHIP).
If Aboriginal objects are known or likely to be harmed, an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment (ACHA) and Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit (AHIP) is required.
It’s best to submit a request for a quote from a heritage company to do a paper and on-site assessment of the project area, they’re trained to identify Aboriginal objects or archaeology quickly and have access to information about identified sensitive areas of cultural heritage.
Aboriginal Due Diligence Assessments include five key steps:
Step 1: Determine if the proposed development will disturb the ground surface or any culturally modified trees.
Step 2a: Search of the AHIMS database and other sources (e.g. previous assessments) for known Aboriginal objects and sites.
Step 2b: Assess landscape features that may indicate the potential for Aboriginal objects, sites or archaeology.
Step 3: Determine if harm can be avoided.
Step 4: Complete a visual inspection of the Project area.
Biosis has one of the largest archaeological heritage and GIS Spatial mapping support teams in Australia with expertise to quickly assess any proposed site.
Step 5: Determine the need for further investigation and impact assessment.
If so, progress to an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment (ACHA) and Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit (AHIP).
You can expect to have a completed an Aboriginal Due Diligence Assessment within three to six weeks of commission, depending on the size and complexity of the site.
Once the due diligence process is complete, you have three options:
- Proceed with caution if no Aboriginal objects or potential archaeology are found or harm can be avoided.
- Modify the activity by adjusting plans to avoid harm, then proceed with caution.
- Apply for an AHIP if harm to Aboriginal objects is unavoidable, apply and follow the permit conditions.
The responsibility for deciding which option to take lies with the proponent, based on the information gathered through due diligence.