Stronger protections for Western Australia's heritage places will come into effect on July 1, 2019, with the gazettal of the new Heritage Act 2018 and Heritage Regulations 2019 taking place today (June 27).
The new legislation replaces the outdated Heritage of Western Australia Act 1990, aligning WA with other States by ensuring better protections for important heritage places, particularly those left to 'demolition by neglect'.
Key changes include:
- A streamlined process for entering a place in the State Register of Heritage Places;
- Clarity for owners wishing to develop their heritage places;
- Better protection for heritage places at risk from 'demolition by neglect';
- Increased transparency by publishing the Heritage Council's advice to the Minister for Heritage on the inclusion of a place in the State Register; and
- Time limits on certain decisions to provide certainty for decision-makers, industry and the community.
The Heritage Council provides technical and professional assistance, and promotes public awareness and knowledge in relation to the State's cultural heritage. For a copy of the new Act and regulations, visit http://www.dplh.wa.gov.au
As stated by Heritage Minister David Templeman:
"The new Heritage Act 2018 is the result of the State Government's commitment to overhaul the sometimes complex, inflexible and unclear heritage assessment and consultation processes.
"Western Australia's heritage protections now reflect best practice and the community's expectation that heritage places be protected as part of our unique story.
"This Act will ensure the places that represent Western Australia's history and development are appropriately identified, protected and celebrated for generations to come."
