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National Heritage Policy: Canberra
THE CHALLENGE
Understanding the future of Australia's built environment requires a deep understanding of the federal government's historical role. From Federation in 1901 to the present, Canberra's influence on urban heritage has fluctuated, often leaving a complex legacy of policy successes and retreats.
OUR APPROACH
Founding Director Dr James Lesh has conducted extensive research into the evolution of national heritage governance:
► Policy Timeline: We interrogated the complete arc of federal activity, from the first organised policymaking of the 1950s and 60s, to the establishment of the Australian Heritage Commission and the National Estate, and their subsequent winding down.
► Strategic Future: The research moves beyond history to propose future directions for national policy, identifying how new values and the sustainability agenda can revitalise the federal role in our cities.
THE OUTCOME
This work provides the critical context needed to advocate for a more robust national heritage framework, demonstrating how past lessons can inform a sustainable future for Australia's urban identity.






