Geological features in our landscape reflect the history of our land;
the geological processes that formed the Earth, and the animals and
plants that have lived on it. As an integral part of the landscape and
our natural heritage they have considerable value for tourism and
recreation, and enhance the visual appeal. The landscape is culturally
important to Aboriginal people and underpins the health and wellbeing of
the country and people.
The integrity and condition of geological heritage sites and
landscapes may be diminished by inappropriate land use and development,
or if access to vulnerable landforms and cultural sites is not
regulated. Residential development, coastal developments, mining and
exploration can also impact geological and Aboriginal heritage sites.
To protect geological features and landscapes from development
and degradation, some sites have been listed as National or geological
heritage sites and Aboriginal communities have identified and registered
particular sites, objects and burials with the Aboriginal Heritage
Committee. The integrity and condition of most heritage sites remains
unknown.
