Due Diligence

A heritage due diligence is a preliminary check done before starting a project to ensure that no significant cultural or historical sites will be disturbed. It involves researching heritage databases, reviewing maps, and sometimes visiting the site to see if there are any known or potential heritage issues. This process helps identify whether the area contains any Aboriginal or other heritage items, like artefacts or important landscapes, and ensures compliance with heritage laws. If risks are found, further assessments may be needed to protect these important cultural values before development can proceed.

What is in a Heritage Due Diligence?

A Heritage Due Diligence report is a more comprehensive assessment then a Letter of Advice (LoA), and is intended to evaluate the risk of impacting heritage values and to ensure compliance with heritage laws. It involves a more thorough review of the potential cultural heritage significance of a site before development.

Purpose: To identify and assess any potential risks to cultural heritage before a project proceeds and to help developers avoid damaging significant heritage sites.
Scope: It typically includes desktop research, mapping, consultation with heritage databases (like the Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System or AHRIS), and often a site visit to determine whether cultural heritage values exist or may be impacted.
Content: The report includes a detailed analysis of the site’s heritage significance, an evaluation of potential impacts, and recommendations for further action, such as a CHMP or modifications to the project.
Uses: Developers and landowners use due diligence reports to assess the viability of their projects and to make informed decisions on whether more in-depth heritage studies are needed.
Typical Audience: Clients involved in medium to large-scale developments or land changes who require a thorough review to ensure compliance with heritage laws.

What is the cost of a Heritage Due Diligence?

The cost of a heritage due diligence report can vary depending on the scope and specifics of the project. For Helix Heritage Solutions, the general pricing structure for heritage due diligence assessments typically includes:

A preliminary desktop assessment.
Review of heritage registers (e.g., Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Register and Information System, National Heritage List, etc.).
Site inspection and risk assessment (if required).
Consultation with relevant stakeholders or Traditional Owners.
Report writing, detailing potential heritage risks and management recommendations.

Exclusions:

Payments to Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs) for meetings or advice.
Any required permit applications or further investigative surveys.

Additional costs will be specified depending on the project's location, engagement needs, and any specific site constraints or requirements.

Key Differences between a Letter of Advice (LoA) and a Due Diligence Assessment

Letter of Advice:

Detail: Brief and focused on immediate advice
Purpose: Initial advice on heritage issues
Scope: Desktop-based, minimal investigation
Use Case: Early-stage, low-impact projects
Outcome: Next steps or advice on further studies

Heritage Due Diligence:

Detail: More comprehensive assessment
Purpose: Evaluate risks and guide compliance
Scope: Can include site visits, detailed analysis
Use Case: Medium to large projects, risk evaluation
Outcome: Detailed recommendations for mitigation or further assessment

A Letter of Advice is useful for quick insights, while a Heritage Due Diligence is more comprehensive, ensuring full compliance with heritage regulations.