Understand how cultural heritage is recognised and safeguarded during timber harvesting activities.
Respecting cultural heritage
We proudly recognise and respect Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Queensland's forests, and commit to protecting cultural heritage values during forest harvesting.
We apply strategies to reduce the risk of damage to both Aboriginal cultural heritage and non-Indigenous cultural heritage.
Legislation for cultural protection
Forest harvesting operations are guided by key legislation, including:
Planning and due diligence measures
We follow a stringent planning and due diligence process to protect cultural heritage.
This process includes:
- searching cultural heritage databases and registers for the proposed harvesting area and surroundings
- locating cultural heritage features, where applicable
- implementing protective exclusion zones around identified sites or features
- assessing previous forest disturbance compared to the proposed activity.
The outcomes are documented in the operational harvest plan, so harvesting operators are aware of any known cultural values.
We advise the customer (permittee) of the due diligence results so they can meet their duty of care obligations. If cultural heritage is identified after operations begin, harvesting operators must stop work immediately to prevent harm.
We do not authorise timber harvesting in areas of the Torres Strait or where the Torres Strait Islander Cultural Heritage Act 2003 applies.
Contact us
Email ForestryEngagement@dpi.qld.gov.au
Last updated: 05 Aug 2025