VCE Outdoor Education and Environmental Studies 3.2.1 revision

Custodianship

The responsibility of caring for and protecting the environment for future generations.

Kinship

The system of relationships and responsibilities Indigenous peoples have with family, Country, natural resources and community.

Country

The land, waterways and seas Indigenous peoples are spiritually, culturally and physically connected to.

Step 1 - Meet the Five Requirements

1. The right people represent the group 2. Connection to the correct Country 3. Proper decision-making processes 4. Capability to manage responsibilities 5. Formation of an incorporated group

Step 2 - Form an Incorporated Group

Groups formally incorporate as: - Land Council - Land and Water Council - Land and Sea Council

Incorporation allows groups to

- Have a governance structure and committee - Legally operate as an organisation - Apply for grants and purchase land - Formally represent Traditional Owners

Step 3 - Apply for Formal Recognition

Groups can seek recognition through one of three pathways: - Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP) - Native Title Determination - Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010 (Vic)

RAP Responsibilities

- Assess Cultural Heritage Management Plans - Protect Aboriginal cultural sites and objects - Advise on land management and development - Manage cultural heritage agreements - Work with public land managers - Support Traditional Owner involvement in conservation

RAPs are approved by

The Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006.

Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP)

Recognition pathway under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (Victoria) approved by the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council.

Native Title Determination

Recognition pathway under the Native Title Act 1993 (Federal) where Traditional Owners apply through the Federal Court.

Native Title Determination applies to

- Crown land - National parks - Beaches and waterways - Some leases and reserves

Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010 (Victoria)

Victorian Government alternative to Native Title claims where Traditional Owners negotiate Recognition and Settlement Agreements.

Traditional Owner Settlement Act provides

Formal recognition, land management rights and financial support, considered a faster and more direct process than Native Title claims.

Indigenous custodianship

Is based on responsibility and connection to Country.

Formal recognition pathways for Traditional Owner groups

Include RAP status, Native Title claims or Settlement Agreements.

RAPs focus on

Protecting and managing Aboriginal cultural heritage.