Field surveys are being used to gather information for many different technical studies for the Environment Effects Statement (EES). There are protections under law for some of these things including for Aboriginal cultural heritage, historical heritage and certain flora and flora species.

If something significant is found, for example protected flora or fauna, AusNet Services will provide you with as much information as possible about what was found.

If an Aboriginal Place is discovered, following verification, AusNet Services will:

• Record and register the place with First Peoples – State Relations (formerly Aboriginal Victoria).
• Work with First Peoples – State Relations, local Traditional Owners or the relevant Registered Aboriginal Party to develop management strategies for the Aboriginal Place with the aim of avoiding or minimising harm during future planned works.

We are working with all Registered Aboriginal Parties along the proposed route to develop a process with each of them for when an Aboriginal Place is found on their land.

Generally, having Aboriginal cultural places on private land will not stop the existing land use from continuing. Aboriginal sites and places are protected by law; so, if something is found on your property, AusNet Services will work with you and the local Traditional Owners to design management strategies to protect the site or place, in some instances this may mean relocating and protecting the cultural heritage elsewhere.

More information about Aboriginal cultural heritage is available on the First Peoples – State Relations website.