22/06/2026
On 19 June 1975, the Whitlam Government passed the Australian Heritage Commission Act 1975, establishing Australia's first national framework for identifying, protecting and preserving places of cultural, historical and environmental significance.
The creation of the Australian Heritage Commission marked a turning point in the conservation of Australia's National Estate. Through the Register of the National Estate, places of cultural and natural significance were identified and recognised, helping to ensure their protection for future generations.
As Gough Whitlam stated in 1969, the purpose was to "keep the beauty we have been given and keep out the ugliness we can only make for ourselves."
The Commission also played an important role in recommending and prioritising conservation projects for government funding. Hundreds of significant heritage sites across Australia benefited from this support, including Camden Park Estate, Elizabeth Farm and the Macquarie Arms Hotel.
Closer to home, in 1975 the historic Female Orphan School building - now home to the Whitlam Institute - underwent essential repairs through funding provided under the National Estate Program, helping preserve one of Australia's most significant historic buildings.
This reform reflected the Whitlam Government's enduring commitment to protecting Australia's heritage and ensuring that places of cultural, historical and environmental significance could be appreciated by future generations.
Learn more: https://www.whitlam.org/studying-whitlam