Step 8: Do the works impact Aboriginal objects or declared Aboriginal places?

Use this step to check if your proposed works will impact Aboriginal objects or declared Aboriginal places protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.

These are important cultural heritage sites, and approval is required if works could harm them.

Will the works impact Aboriginal objects or declared Aboriginal places?

If you answered yes

If the proposed works may harm or disturb Aboriginal objects or declared Aboriginal places, you must apply for an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit (AHIP) from the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).

Before applying, you’ll need to:

• check whether Aboriginal objects are recorded in your project area
• consult with the relevant Local Aboriginal Land Council or Traditional Custodian groups
• follow the Due Diligence Code of Practice for the Protection of Aboriginal Objects in NSW.

Apply for an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit.

If you are not sure

You can check whether Aboriginal objects or places occur within or near your project area by:

• searching the Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System (AHIMS) database
• contacting your Local Aboriginal Land Council for advice.

If you identify possible objects or sites, stop work until you have professional heritage advice and have consulted with DCCEEW.