Case study 6: Commonwealth Heritage List. Streamlined approach to conducting an assessment of Commonwealth heritage assets

In a streamlined approach to assessing Commonwealth heritage assets, Australia Post engaged heritage consultants to assess about 120 properties across Australia. 

The consultants initially undertook a study of post offices nationally. Half of the properties assessed were nomination to the Commonwealth Heritage List. Of the 60 post offices, 14 were already on the list provided and therefore needed only an amendment, addition or deletion to the values. A further two were ineligible, having been sold, and another two were deferred.

Therefore 56 post offices in the first tranche of Australia Post places were assessed (or revised) for their Commonwealth Heritage values.

Airservices Australia took a similar approach to Australia Post, undertaking a national survey and interim assessment—in this case, of 28 air traffic control towers. From a study giving an historical overview of the development of control towers in Australia, Airservices Australia identified a series of broad tower types. Thirteen properties were assessed and six were then nominated for the Commonwealth Heritage List. 

The Australian Heritage Council assessed the Commonwealth heritage values of the post offices and control towers and presented its assessments to the minister in June 2011.