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20 April 2015

Cultural Heritage Information Sessions

The Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 has recently undergone review with recommended amendments before parliament.  The Victorian Heritage Act 1995 is now in its 20th year of operation, and a review on its function and utility is about to commence.  These changes may affect many projects and approvals processes. Biosis are currently hosting information sessions across Victoria on cumulative changes to Victoria’s Heritage Management and how it relates to planning and development.  The response to the sessions on offer has been tremendous with over 300 registrations to date.

With greenfield developments set to increase in the coming year, and amendments to planning zones ensuring that medium to high density development and urban renewal projects are high on the development agenda, there is an increased need to consider both Aboriginal and Post-Contact heritage management practices, including associated costs and complications.

The management of heritage sites as a consequence of the current legislation has evolved over the last few years.  Specific industry trends have adjusted with associated impacts on cost and viability of projects.  The Biosis information sessions will outline the key changes and provide an insight into upcoming shifts in assessment and mandatory requirements.

Topics to be covered include:

  • Planning Approvals
    • What is required
    • Proponent and agency responsibilities
  • Mandatory and Voluntary CHMPs
    • Industry trends on scope and costs of assessments
    • The roles of Registered Aboriginal Parties
  • Consents to Damage
    • Heritage Victoria's new guidelines
    • Urban Renewal Projects and heritage zones and buildings
  • Conservation Management Plans

Information sessions

The following information sessions are planned within Victoria:

  • Bendigo – 16 April 2015
  • Ballarat – 23 April 2015
  • Shepparton – 28 April 2015
  • Traralgon – 30 April 2015
  • Wodonga – 7 May 2015
  • Geelong - 14 May 2015
  • Horsham – 19 May 2015
  • Warrnambool – 26 May 2015
  • Port Melbourne – 2 June 2015
  • Port Melbourne – 16 June 2015

For more information on the sessions and to book a place please contact melbourne@biosis.com.au.