Chamber objects to DAA for process of assessment of LSC11

Written on the 24 November 2016

**bcci media release**

With objection to DAA for process of assessment of LSC11
(WA Department of Aboriginal Affairs' move to register all of Broome as an Aboriginal site)

* The Broome community MUST be consulted prior to the assessment

* This consultation cannot be done comprehensively and fairly prior to the assessment date of 14 December 2016

* Submission deadline currently 30 November 2016 which does not allow sufficient time for due consultation

* The Broome Chamber has requested a copy of the DAA's engagement policy

The Broome Chamber of Commerce and Industry is asking the Department of Aboriginal Affairs (DAA) to ensure the Aboriginal Cultural Materials Committee (ACMC) further defers the assessment of the site to allow a comprehensive engagement process with the local community.

The ACMC is due assess the LSC11 proposal 14 December.

The Chambner's  key objection at this stage is the lack of effective public notice (which did not reference Broome or the Kimberley), and engagement with the Broome community and stakeholders prior to publishing the notice.

Through this process the DAA has undermined the work of Yawuru, the Chamber, Shire and other key stakeholders to build a sense of unity and cohesion in Broome, vital to future prospects of the region.

The Chamber is submitting an objection to the inadequate process of public notice, and has requested a copy of the DAA's engagement policy.

Peter Taylor, President of BCCI said, "We have confirmed today that the DAA has extended the time for submissions to the 30th November, however we do not believe this is satisfactory given the potential impact of this application on Broome and its economy, with no prior engagement to this deadline.

"We encourage members to write to the registra of the DAA to request a further extension to allow a proper engagement process with the community accordingly."

The Chamber is continuing to collaborate with the Shire and Yawuru on this matter, and are optimistic that the matter will be resolved.

Ends.

Submissions should be sent to REGISTRAR OF ABORIGINAL SITES.

PO Box 3153, East Perth  WA 6892

registrar@daa.wa.gov.au

08 6551 8000

YAWURU:  TRANSPARENCY REQUIRED FOR ABORIGINAL HERITAGE PROTECTION IN BROOME

LISTEN TO PETER YU'S INTERVIEW WITH ABC'S VANESSA MILLS

BROOME SHIRE:  Heritage move a damaging step for Broome

Download template letter to DAA

Download Fact Sheet on assessment from DAA