The aboriginal heritage act 2006 (Vic.): A glass half full...?

The aim of this chapter is to explore the contention that the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (Vic.) has laid strong legislative foundations for ensuring traditional Aboriginal owner self-determination in the management and control of Aboriginal heritage but that the administrative processes built upon these foundations have failed to completely fulfil these expectations. This exploration will take place in four sections: first, a review of the legislative history prior to the Act; second, a review of the structures in place under the Act; third, a consideration of the political processes leading up to the Act; and, finally, an assessment of the operation of the Act when compared with other jurisdictions and recommendations for legislative improvement arising from this.