NSW is the only state without specific laws to protect Aboriginal cultural heritage and this has led to mass cultural destruction with over 1,450 Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permits approved since 2010 and none rejected.

I joined Reverend Fred Nile MLC to co-sponsor his bill to restore custodianship of Aboriginal cultural heritage decisions to local Aboriginal people. A parliamentary committee expressed support for the bill but there was not enough time to negotiate amendments before the end of the year. I welcome commitments from both major parties to progress dedicated laws to protect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural heritage next year. I will push for First Nations people to be at the forefront of that process.