We protect national and international movable cultural heritage: we regulate exports and imports, and help museums, galleries and libraries acquire important cultural material. We help repatriate Indigenous ancestral remains and cultural material.

  • The Cultural Gifts Program offers tax incentives to encourage people to donate cultural items to public art galleries, museums, libraries and archives.
  • The Australian Government supports the repatriation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ancestral remains (ancestors) and secret sacred objects (objects) which contributes to healing and reconciliation.
  • Cultural material bought in Australia or overseas is protected by laws. Our role is to help you make sure that you buy, sell, import or export cultural objects legally.
  • Cultural Organisations can apply for Deductible Gift Recipient status so that they can receive tax deductible donations. This helps cultural organisations to attract funding from businesses and individuals.
  • Australia is a party to the UNESCO Convention to protect and promote the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.

Latest news