A new book developed by the Australian Heritage Commission (AHC) has called for developers to ‘ask first’ when making planning and development decisions.The book, ‘Ask First: A Guide to Respecting Indigenous Heritage Places and Values’, was launched recently.
It provides a tool for developers, managers, planners and workers who want to protect special Indigenous places.
“Ask First helps guide people through the consultation process with Indigenous communities,” said AHC Chairman, Tom Harley. “It provides clear suggestions for industry groups looking to establish a dialogue with Indigenous communities to achieve a positive outcome for all involved. This publication recognises that Indigenous people are the primary source of information about the significance of Indigenous areas and objects, and decisions that affect that significance must be made in consultation with Indigenous people.”
The booklet focuses on consultation with Indigenous peoples, following the results of a recent survey by the AHC of Indigenous organisations. This found that 56 per cent of those surveyed indicated that non indigenous people did not adhere to community approved protocols for consultation.
“We need to work toward a greater understanding, acceptance of and respect for Indigenous heritage places and their conservation,” Tom Harley said.
For further information contact AHC on 1800 020 652.
