Greens senator and Yamatji Noongar woman, Senator Dorinda Cox has introduced a bill into the senate which would amend the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC) to prevent damaging industrial action near vulnerable monuments. 

Cox:

I have a deep commitment to protecting Australia’s ancient culture by supporting the traditional owners and communities who say no to the destruction of their cultural heritage and preserving their connection to our ancestors through our ancient rock art. These monuments represent and record our rich, historic and vibrant culture.”

“These sites are not only a testament to the unique cultural tapestry of our First Nations people, but they are also a vital part of our Australian tourism industry, which brings billions into our economy.  It’s our duty and responsibility to our future generations to ensure we preserve our monuments, art and sacred spaces and to showcase these to the world. They are as precious as England’s Stonehenge and Egypt’s pyramids.”

“Time and time again, we have seen a failure in Federal leadership and we cannot leave our sacred places and monuments in the hands of those who clearly prioritise the profits of gas cartels and climate wrecking projects over our future generations connection to the world’s oldest continuous culture, Australia’s history etched in our landscapes tell a story of time, place and story.”

“We have seen the denigration and destruction for too long, we need Federal leadership on this issue and we need it now, every day that passes without action means this precious rock art will continue to be destroyed. These sacred monuments need to be safeguarded from the irreversible damage of industrial emissions, particularly from gas projects.”

“The We All Come Together for Country Bill 2025 fills a significant gap in our current legislation. Amending the EPBC Act, we are setting clear, enforceable standards that prevent harmful industrial activities from compromising our cultural heritage and tourism industry, they also provide the surety industry has been asking for. These amendments will ensure that future generations have the opportunity to experience and explore Australia’s history, landscapes and ensure that our tourism economy continues to thrive for decades to come.”

“Tourism is a lifeline for many of our communities, most being small operators and family businesses that contribute to our GDP and showcase our nation’s unique heritage to the world. With this bill, we are not only preserving irreplaceable First Nations cultural treasures but also protecting an industry that supports local jobs and enriches our national identity. I am proud to champion this Bill for the sake of our First Nations cultural heritage, tourism, economy, and our collective future.”

You can find more information on some of what communities are working to protect, here.