The Western Australian Museum is seeking expressions of interest from members of the community to join its Maritime Archaeology Advisory Committee.

The primary role of the Advisory Committee is to advise the CEO of the Museum on matters relating to shipwrecks and underwater cultural heritage. In particular, this involves advice on the implementation of the Commonwealth Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976 (now amended to the Underwater Cultural Heritage Act 2018) and the State Maritime Archaeology Act 1973.

Members represent the community that has special interest or expertise in the field, and act as advocates for the protection of underwater cultural heritage in the community.

The committee advises the WA Museum on issues relating to:

• the general administration of the Maritime Archaeology Act 1973 (WA) and general administration of powers delegated to the Museum CEO by the Commonwealth under the Underwater Cultural Heritage Act 2018 (Ctth);
• the management of wrecks, relics, and zones protected under the Act particularly where such management may require stakeholder consultation;
• the promotion of community interest in maritime archaeology and increased public awareness of the importance of its protection and conservation;
• issues relating to the Museum’s collections, exhibitions and display of maritime archaeological material; and;
• partnerships between the Museum, organisations and members of the community with an interest in maritime archaeology.

Committee members are appointed for four-year terms and are subject to approval by the Trustees of the WA Museum. The Advisory Committee meets four times per year.

There are two committee member positions available. People of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to apply, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

If you are interested in becoming a member of the WA Museum’s Maritime Archaeology Committee, send a copy of your CV and a short expression of interest (maximum one A4 page) outlining the particular skills or knowledge you may be able to bring to the WA Museum.

The closing date for all expressions of interest is Thursday 13 December and are to be sent via email to jeremy.green@museum.wa.gov.au

If you have any questions, please contact Jeremy Green, Head of Maritime Archaeology, on (08) 9431 8440.