Powerlink had several projects involving connecting large-scale infrastructure developments into the state power grid. In addition, Powerlink had to complete minor upgrade works for various existing infrastructure to extend the life of those assets. Initially we advised the client on all of the cultural heritage compliance options under ss23, 24, 25 and 26 of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 (Qld) including the coverage of project activities by the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Duty of Care Guidelines. We assisted Powerlink in developing an overarching Cultural Heritage Management Agreement (‘CHMA’) for the consideration of the Aboriginal parties. The agreements provided a framework to streamline the way in which Powerlink and the Aboriginal party could mitigate any harm to heritage during activities within the area without having to negotiate a separate agreement for each project.
The parties engaged in several consultation meetings about the project and its possible impact on Aboriginal cultural heritage. By proposing an overarching CHMA that covered all works that Powerlink would undertake in their claim area, it allowed the parties to develop a longer-term relationship about the protection of material and use of the land. The CHMA builds on this relationship to provide certainty to both parties moving forward.