Legacy heritage study toolkit: guidelines and resources for rural and regional councils

The legacy heritage study toolkit supports its users to review, update and implement local heritage studies. It contains step-by-step guidance and practical resources to support the key stages of the review process.

Resource 1: work program example

This is an example work program that can be customised for a heritage study review.

Resource 2: heritage citation form and content

This information sheet explains the fields and information recommended for a heritage citation.

Resource 3A: auditing tool

This tool is used for reviewing a heritage citation to identify information gaps.

Resource 3B: example heritage citation before and after

This information sheet summarises the type and quantum of work required to update the example heritage citations. There are ten corresponding examples of heritage citations before and after updates.

Resource 4: master list template

This is an example master list that can be customised to record the findings of the legacy heritage study audit.

Resource 5: HERMES database

This information sheet summarises recommended HERMES database inputs.

Resource 6: consultant brief examples

These example consultant briefs can be used to procure the services of a heritage consultant for a comprehensive or limited heritage study review. Users can amend or combine elements from the examples, as required, to suit the needs of the heritage study review.

Resource 7: project plan

This is an example project plan that can be customised to guide project governance for a heritage study review.

Resource 8: establishing local thresholds guide

This information sheet explains how local heritage thresholds are established.

Resource 9: statement of significance examples

The following statements of significance include a range of common local heritage place categories.

Resource 10: example stakeholder consultation documentation

These example letters can be used to inform stakeholders about the inception and consultation stages of a heritage study review. Users can amend or combine elements from the examples, as required. An example Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) factsheet is also provided.

Resource 11: example heritage study review final report

This information sheet sets out the recommended structure and content of a heritage study review final report.

Resource 12: example planning scheme amendment documentation

The information sheet and examples set out the recommended content and formatting for translating a heritage study review into the relevant planning scheme.

These examples are provided for information purposes but should not be used as templates. Users should always download a ‘fresh’ template from the DTP webpage when required, as new versions are released periodically.

Resource 13: further reading

This is a summary of information found in relevant technical guidelines and background reports for preparing a legacy heritage study review.

Page last updated: 25/05/26