Working with Traditional Owners, heritage and others
Some volunteer activities take place on Country, involve cultural heritage, or require specialist support. Parks Victoria supports these arrangements to care for people, Country and parks.
At a glance
- Talk with your Contact Ranger early if activities involve Country, heritage or other organisations.
- Volunteers take part in approved activities only.
- Some activities need checks or permits, especially where ground disturbance is involved.
- Group Leaders do not manage contracts, permits or approvals.
- If unsure, pause and check with your ranger.
Working with Traditional Owners
Parks Victoria works in partnership with Traditional Owners to care for parks and reserves through Managing Country Together. These partnerships recognise the ongoing connection of Traditional Owners to Country.
What this means for Group Leaders
- Some parks and reserves are jointly managed with Traditional Owners.
- Certain activities may need discussion, endorsement or adjustment before they proceed.
- Group Leaders and volunteers should not approach Traditional Owners directly unless advised.
What to do If your group is planning activities on jointly managed land, or involving cultural or natural values of significance, speak with your Contact Ranger early. They will guide what is appropriate and coordinate any required engagement.
Respecting cultural heritage
Victoria’s parks protect places of Aboriginal and historic cultural significance.
What this means for Group Leaders
- Activities involving ground disturbance or new works may require checks or changes.
- You are not expected to assess cultural heritage impacts yourself.
- Cultural heritage considerations are part of Parks Victoria’s planning and approval processes.
What to do When planning activities, let your Contact Ranger know where the work will take place and what is involved. They will confirm what is needed before work begins.
Working with contractors and other organisations
Some activities may involve contractors, consultants, researchers or service providers. These arrangements support specialist or technical work and are managed by Parks Victoria.
What this means for Group Leaders
- Involvement of other organisations must be planned and approved.
- Either Parks Victoria or the volunteer group will engage the contractor, depending on the activity.
- Volunteers should not engage, direct or supervise contractors independently.
What to do If specialist work or services are needed, discuss this with your Contact Ranger. They will confirm whether the activity is suitable and manage approvals and oversight.
Working together respectfully is a shared responsibility. Involving your Contact Ranger early helps protect volunteers, partners and parks.