Cultural Heritage Officer

Summary

Cultural heritage officers are involved in the identification, assessment, conservation and interpretation of places and objects having cultural heritage value.

Duties & Tasks

Cultural heritage officers may perform the following tasks:

  • develop conservation policy and guidelines
  • check and administer legislation
  • compile and supply educational information on cultural heritage and conservation
  • seek and arrange funding to support heritage applications
  • assess and compare the heritage value of objects, places, events and practices, and determine how they acquired their heritage value
  • identify and assess the value of places and objects of cultural heritage significance
  • provide advice on proposed projects or activities that may affect cultural heritage sites
  • provide advice on the conservation and management of places and objects of cultural heritage significance
  • prepare thematic histories (studies based on a particular theme in history)
  • provide advice on the interpretation of places and objects of cultural heritage significance.

Working Conditions

Cultural heritage officers must also develop and regularly update their knowledge of Australian history, Indigenous history and culture, urban/environmental design and one or more areas of specialisation such as prehistory, archaeology, geology, ecology, architecture, visual arts or popular culture.

Personal Requirements

  • interested in objects, events, places and practices of the past and their significance for the present and the future
  • an enquiring mind and a capacity for detailed observation and accurate research
  • good written communication skills
  • able to work independently or as part of a team
  • interested in other people and cultures
  • able to prioritise and work under time constraints.

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