Heritage access launched on net

INFORMATION on Aboriginal heritage sites is now easier to access, thanks to the Aboriginal Affairs Department’s new heritage site management system.

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Kim Hames said the web-based database could access information previously stored on four separate databases.

Dr Hames said the database incorporated a simple public inquiry system that let Abori-ginal Affairs Department staff and Aboriginal communities undertake site searches.

He said the new system would also benefit mining and resource groups and other government departments.

“It is the first time this sort of public access has been available,” Dr Hames said.

“Demand is extremely high, with most major mining and resource companies, the Nation-al Native Title Tribunal, the Aboriginal Legal Service, government agencies, local government and land councils applying for access to this information.