Tips for Travellers

Ten Top Tips for Travellers

Brought to you by the Department of Indigenous Affairs

1. Stick to the main tracks
   Stick to the main roads and don’t go off the track. You could be on Aboriginal Land and you will need permission from the owners, as if you were on a cattle station or other property. If in doubt always check before you go.
   
2. Permits are needed
   In some cases, a permit may be required to visit Aboriginal land and these are available free from the DIA. Penalties for unauthorised entry are $1000 or imprisonment for nine months.
   
3. Go with a guide
   Most of the country is remote and could be dangerous. Getting a guide will help you explore the country safely and local guides have a wealth of knowledge they are happy to share.
   
4. Observe any signs
   In some places Aboriginal land is signposted. Read the signs and don’t go to areas that are off-limits. If you see fences or gates, please don’t enter.
   
5. Respect Aboriginal communities’ right to privacy
   Communities are happy to have visitors, but sometimes they may have special business, which means it is not a good time to visit. Some communities may also charge an entry fee – this helps them maintain their infrastructure.
   
6. Do not touch artwork or artefacts
   If you find paintings or other artefacts, respect them and don’t touch them. Some can be up to 40,000 years old and are very delicate. They can be damaged by human touch, cigarette smoke or even dust from your car tyres.
   
7. Take your rubbish with you
   Please don’t leave litter in the country. Take your rubbish with you or place it in the bins provided.
   
8. Do not take any flora or fauna
   The country may seem huge and powerful but it is also delicate and sensitive. Flora and fauna are a vital part of the land and Aboriginal culture and should not be removed.
   
9. Respect the land
   There are sacred sites all over regional WA and they should not be disturbed. Some are signposted but many are not. Use common sense and respect Indigenous heritage and culture.
   
10. Enjoy your trip
    Western Australia is a wonderful and exciting place, full of history and culture. Following these useful steps will help make your trip a once in a lifetime experience!
    
    

Caring for Country- Protecting our Indigenous Heritage

Every year thousands of tourists flock to regional Western Australia from across the State, country and the globe to experience more than 40,000 years of Indigenous history first hand.

There are hundreds of fascinating Indigenous heritage sites across WA, however many of these are fragile and can be easily damaged.

The Department of Indigenous Affairs has released Top Ten Tips for travellers on hot to enjoy Western Australia's Indigenous cultural heritage while ensuring it is protected.

These include advice on protocols when travelling to Aboriginal communities, applying for permits, and how to respect Indigenous sites.

Western Australia's Indigenous heritage and culture is precious and by following these simple tips, travellers can help ensure it will be protected for generations to come.