The Aboriginal Heritage Council met for their regular monthly meeting on Friday 26 May 2023 in Hobart.
While several Council members were absent for the May meeting, a quorum of six members was achieved.
Under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1975, the Aboriginal Heritage Council is to advise and make recommendations to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, however it is ultimately the Minister who is responsible for issuing permits to impact Aboriginal heritage.
There was consensus among Council members at the May meeting not to consider permit applications tabled as part of the statutory process.
This position was taken in solidarity with Council members who have recently resigned from Council or otherwise chosen to boycott Council meetings.
It is hoped the concerns of Council members will be addressed at the next Aboriginal Heritage Council meeting and the Council can resume this aspect of their function.
The next Aboriginal Heritage Council meeting will be held on Friday 30 June 2023 in Hobart.