The Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority (AAPA) has stood up to the Northern Territory government. In response to the government’s move, they condemned them for rushing changes to the Sacred Sites Act without meaningfully consulting Aboriginal leaders. Meanwhile, the federal government is moving to weaken protections for cultural heritage. They have provided just one week’s notice for the public to submit comments, a process AAPA contends imposes unreasonable questions left largely unanswered.
The Legislative Scrutiny Committee is currently considering the draft bill. It provides a smart roadmap of amendments the Legislature should adopt to expedite processes and reduce unnecessary red tape. AAPA Chair Bobby Nunggumajbarr warned of the “very high risk of unintended consequences” due to the lack of effective consultation. The deadline for public comment on these changes is April 4.
Proposed Changes Spark Debate
The proposed amendments launched an uproarious debate on their possible dangers to sacred sites. Initially, the government is adamant that none of these changes will change the ease or difficulty of getting a certificate. Critics say that the short timeframe is concerning. Bobby Nunggumajbarr questioned the government’s motives, stating:
“The rapid timeframe and the limited nature of the amendments raises many questions about why this is happening.” – Bobby Nunggumajbarr
We appreciate AAPA’s recognition that a quick fix is not the answer, and we welcome their call to modernize and strengthen legislation. The authority has been on the vanguard of realizing the need for changes to better foster economic development while keeping necessary cultural heritage protections in place. Nunggumajbarr suggested broader reforms could better serve Aboriginal communities:
“Not all communities have reliable internet or connectivity. They can’t just read the legislation online. One week to respond to the scrutiny committee is not enough.” – Bobby Nunggumajbarr
A Need for Modernization
Deputy Opposition Leader Gerard Maley reiterated that the amendments aim to protect sacred sites:
“We could be discussing a one-stop-shop where all Aboriginal heritage and sacred sites are protected under a single process and a single act.” – Bobby Nunggumajbarr
Nunggumajbarr voiced frustration over the limited timeframe for submissions:
“It’s really about protecting sacred sites and that’s what we intend to do.” – Gerard Maley
Urgent Calls for Comprehensive Consultation
Maley encouraged public participation in the process, urging individuals to voice their opinions:
“We welcome the draft bill being subject to the Legislative Scrutiny Committee but instead of travelling the NT to explain the amendments, the government has given Territorians one week to make a submission.” – Bobby Nunggumajbarr
Maley encouraged public participation in the process, urging individuals to voice their opinions:
“There’s going to be lots of opportunity for people to have their say in relation to that and I invite them to do that as this matter moves forward.” – Gerard Maley
