The NSW Government has released its first statewide Heritage Strategy, setting out a five-year plan aimed at modernising heritage protections, expanding the stories recognised across the state and simplifying processes for property owners and communities.
Announced during Heritage Month, the strategy outlines reforms to make the heritage system more accessible and adaptable, while supporting housing priorities through measures such as adaptive reuse of heritage properties.
The plan proposes streamlined approval processes to encourage conservation and activation of heritage sites, alongside clearer compliance rules under a proposed new Heritage Act. The government says the updated legislation will introduce stronger penalties for owners who allow listed properties to fall into disrepair.
Minister for Heritage Penny Sharpe said the strategy marks a shift in how heritage is recognised and managed across the state.
“For the first time, NSW has a clear plan to celebrate the diversity of our history and pave a way for heritage to be part of the housing solution including greater activation and adaptive reuse.
“Bringing our heritage system up to date means we can recognise and protect our history in ways that speak to our current communities and reflect our many perspectives on the past.
“This Strategy is about making recognition of heritage fairer and faster, supported by modern legislation that protects our past and delivers firm compliance when properties are neglected.”
A key focus of the strategy is broadening representation on the State Heritage Register, with commitments to include more culturally diverse listings and establish a new intangible heritage program. The government will also work with Aboriginal communities to support truth-telling initiatives and improve recognition of culturally significant heritage.
The strategy includes plans to develop new guidance and resources for property owners, including advice on climate change preparedness, and to explore long-term funding models to support ongoing maintenance and conservation.
Development of the plan follows two years of consultation, with input from more than 1,750 individuals and organisations, including councils, community groups, academics, advocacy bodies and industry stakeholders.
The government says recent heritage actions include the gazettal of four Aboriginal Places, recognition of 32 stories through the Blue Plaques program, completion of 40 repatriation projects with Aboriginal communities and progress on a further 51 projects. It has also distributed $8.65 million in grants to 140 recipients and added multiple items to the State Heritage Register.
Heritage sites remain a major contributor to the state’s visitor economy, attracting nearly 15 million visitors annually and generating close to $10 billion in spending.
The full NSW Heritage Strategy is available on the NSW Government website.
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