The Victorian Heritage Register is a comprehensive listing of places and objects deemed to have significant cultural heritage value in the state of Victoria, Australia. It is an official record that recognizes and protects historic sites, buildings, landscapes, and objects that contribute to the understanding and appreciation of the state's history and identity.
The register is maintained by Heritage Victoria, a division of the state government's Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning. Its purpose is to identify and preserve places and objects of heritage significance, ensuring their long-term protection and management.
Inclusion in the Victorian Heritage Register provides legal protection to the listed items, prohibiting any unauthorized alterations, demolition, or removal. It also encourages owners and custodians to prioritize the conservation and maintenance of these heritage assets.
To be listed in the Victorian Heritage Register, a place or object must meet certain criteria established by legislation. These criteria generally include aesthetic, historic, scientific, or social significance. Items on the register can range from iconic landmarks and grand architecture to archaeological sites and everyday objects that reflect specific periods, cultures, or events.
The Victorian Heritage Register serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, historians, and the general public who seek to understand and learn from Victoria's rich cultural history. It contributes to the collective memory and cultural identity of the state and helps foster an appreciation and understanding of the past.
