The main purposes of this Act are to make a declaration protecting the Yarra River as one living and integrated natural entity; provide for the development and implementation of a Yarra Strategic Plan as an overarching policy and planning framework for the Yarra River and certain land in its vicinity; to establish the Birrarung Council to report to the Minister on the development and implementation of the plan and generally act as the voice of the Yarra River; and to provide for the declaration of the Greater Yarra Urban Parklands.
The preamble to the Act highlights the connection of the traditional owners of the land through which the Yarra River flows to the river and their past and ongoing stewardship of it. The preamble is partly written in the language of the traditional owners, the Woi-wurrung language.
The Birrarung Council has the function of advocating for the protection and preservation of the Yarra River. It is intended that the Council will act as a voice for the Yarra River. It will report to the Minister on the development, implementation, operation and effectiveness of a Yarra Strategic Plan and advise the Minister generally in relation to the protection and preservation of Yarra River land. The Council will consist of up to 12 members comprising at least two nominees of the Wurundjeri Tribe Land and Compensation Cultural Heritage Council; one representative of an environment group and of an agriculture industry group; two skill-based members; one representative of a local community group; and an appropriately skilled chairperson.
Clause 12 sets out the cultural principles of the Bill. It states that Aboriginal cultural values, heritage and knowledge of Yarra River land should be acknowledged, reflected, protected and promoted; and the role of traditional owners as custodians of Yarra River land should be acknowledged through partnership, representation and involvement in policy planning and decision-making.
For further information please see the Second Reading Speech from the Legislative Council.