Physical evidence of Aboriginal occupation and history can be seen across the landscape of New South Wales in many diverse natural forms such as rock art and stone tools. Aboriginal culture is connected to Country, including waterways, animals and plants. These sites and elements of the landscape are associated with Dreaming stories and cultural learning. They include, but are not limited to:
- shell middens
- stone artefact scatters
- isolated artefacts
- grinding grooves
- rock art and engravings
- rock shelters
- scarred trees
- stone arrangements
- stone and ochre quarries
- fish traps
- water holes
- burials.
To report alleged harm to Aboriginal sites or objects, call the Environment Line on 131 555.
Our program
We partner with Aboriginal communities to do on-ground works to conserve Aboriginal cultural heritage.
On-ground conservation works aim to repair damage caused by:
- ageing, weathering or other natural processes
- vandalism or inappropriate land uses.
We use various practices and techniques to conserve the different types of sites and objects.
Aboriginal objects, significant sites and declared Aboriginal places are managed and protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.
More information
- Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System
- Aboriginal objects and places
- Aboriginal cultural heritage consultation requirements for proponents
- Due Diligence Code of Practice for the Protection of Aboriginal Objects in New South Wales
- Guide to investigating, assessing and reporting on Aboriginal cultural heritage in NSW
- Code of Practice for Archaeological Investigation of Aboriginal Objects in NSW
- Separate guidelines for developing management plans for declared Aboriginal Places
- Connecting with Country Framework
- Designing with Country Discussion Paper