Australian Heritage Festival Minister’s message

My journey in those first few months took me from far north Queensland to inspect the Great Barrier Reef, touring the engineering marvels that are the Snowy Mountains Scheme and the ancient Budj Bim aquaculture system, and finally to see firsthand the majestic landscape of the Australian Antarctic Territory.

Australia’s heritage contributes to our sense of place, community and personal well-being, it informs us about where we have come from and who we are, and is an important part of our national identity.

Together our heritage places tell of our shared experience on this ancient continent while showcasing our achievements and stunning natural environment.

Discovering and experiencing these places, whether they are local sites in our own communities or one of the 108 places on the National Heritage List, is an opportunity to create a personal connection that lasts a lifetime.

I am extremely pleased that the National Trust Heritage Festival has now been expanded through a partnership with the Australian Government to become the Australian Heritage Festival Month.

With more than 1000 events around the country, from historic walks and tours to jazz music and sleeping under the stars, there is something to interest everyone in the coming weeks.

This year’s theme, Having a Voice, is extremely fitting as our national heritage is rich with voices from many cultures.

I encourage all Australians to raise their own voices in celebration of the places, people and events that have made us who we are today.

The Hon Josh Frydenberg MP, Minister for the Environment and Energy

Press release:

Many voices heard in the Australian Heritage Festival (18 April 2017)