Become a member of the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council

Victorian Traditional Owners are invited to apply for positions on the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council and play a key role in strengthening the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage.

The Council plays an important role in the management and protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage across Victoria, ensuring responsibility for this heritage remains with Traditional Owners.

Council's responsibilities include:

  • being the central coordinating body responsible for Ancestral Remains and Secret or Sacred Objects in Victoria
  • providing advice to the Minister for Treaty and First Peoples
  • making decisions on applications from Traditional Owner groups seeking to become Registered Aboriginal Parties
  • promoting public awareness and understanding of Aboriginal cultural heritage
  • managing the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Fund
  • facilitating research into Aboriginal cultural heritage in Victoria.

Victorian Traditional Owners who are residents of Victoria, have extensive knowledge of Aboriginal cultural heritage, and time to commit to Council duties are encouraged to apply.

"The Council's work is vital to strengthening the inherent rights of Victorian Traditional Owners to enjoy and be in control of their heritage, and I encourage interested Victorian Traditional Owners to apply."

Denise Lovett, Chairperson

Expressions of interest

To be eligible to be a Council member you must be an Aboriginal person who:

  • is a Victorian Traditional Owner
  • is a resident of Victoria
  • has relevant experience or knowledge of Aboriginal cultural heritage in Victoria.

Consideration will also be given to experience in governance and the practical operation of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006.(opens in a new window)

Council welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences, including people of different genders, people of all ages, people with disability, and LGBTQI+ people.

Council members are expected to have adequate time to commit to the duties of the Council. They are paid a sitting fee and are reimbursed for travel expenses in accordance with Victorian Government guidelines.

Application form

VAHC Membership Application Form 2022
Word 429.17 KB
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Return by post to:

The Office of Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council
Level 3, 3 Treasury Place
East Melbourne VIC 3002

Return by email to: vahc@dpc.vic.gov.au

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