Greens push for ancient rock art protection

Greens Senator Dorinda Cox has introduced the We All Come Together for Country Bill to Parliament aimed at preventing further damage to vulnerable ancient rock art from encroaching industries.

“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,” Senator Cox said.

“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.”

The Bill will result in the protection of Australia’s priceless ancient rock art from damaging industrial action and corrosive emissions.

These emissions include; nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, ammonia and particulate matter, which put significant heritage protected sites like Murujuga on the Burrup Peninsula in WA at risk, a location known for its vast collection of culturally significant rock art and natural beauty.

“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,” Senator Cox,a Yamatji Noongar woman, said.

“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.”

The protection of these sites is important for not only preserving the cultural heritage of Traditional Owners, but also for supporting Australia’s multi-billion dollar tourism industry that supports the nation’s economy and preserves these sites for future generations.

“The We All Come Together for Country Bill 2025 fills a significant gap in our current legislation,” Senator Cox said.

“By amending the EPBC Act, we are setting clear, enforceable standards that prevent harmful industrial activities from compromising our cultural heritage and tourism industry.

“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.

“I am proud to champion this Bill for the sake of our First Nations cultural heritage, tourism, economy, and our collective future.”