| 'Aboriginal Affairs Victoria (AAV) is the Victorian Government's central point of advice on all aspects of Aboriginal affairs in Victoria. This policy advice may relate to services provided by other State Government agencies, Commonwealth departments, and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC), or to services delivered within the Aboriginal community. AAV is often the first point of call by members of the Aboriginal community and its organisations requiring information on a wide range of issues. An important aspect of the work of AAV is to promote knowledge and understanding about Victoria's Aboriginal people within the wider community. AAV also administers legislation that protects Aboriginal cultural heritage in Victoria. This function relies on close co-operation with the various Aboriginal communities around the State.' (AAV website, 'Welcome to the Aboriginal Affairs Victoria Website': http://www.dvc.vic.gov.au/AAV/INDEX.HTM).
In December 2002, responsibility for Aboriginal Affairs Victoria was transferred from the former Department of Natural Resources and Environment to the new Department for Victorian Communities. |
