Fighting for Cape York’s Future

Future Making Fellow at the Environment Institute, Dr Ania Kotarba, has co-authored a recent article for The Conversation alongside Michael Westaway (University of Queensland) and a group of Traditional Owners. Together, they’re calling for Cape York to be added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This push is now at risk, as Queensland’s Liberal-National government, led by Premier David Crisafulli, has paused support for the nomination.

Ania previously served on the International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) World Heritage Nomination Bids Review Panel and has led research in partnership with Aboriginal communities, particularly within the Kaurareg Archipelago. Her co-author, Michael Westaway, is funded by the Australian Research Council and has worked closely with Traditional Owners across Cape York, including in Mapoon, Weipa, the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve, and the Flinders Island Group. Their on-the-ground experience brings vital insight to the case for protecting Cape York’s globally significant cultural and natural heritage.

The Queensland Government has set bold ambitions to become a global leader in tourism, as outlined in its Destination 2045 tourism plan. The plan highlights that one in six jobs in tropical North Queensland rely on the tourism sector.

Yet, the recent decision to review the Cape York World Heritage nomination raises questions. Originally submitted by former Labor Premier Steven Miles and Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek, the proposal included seven national parks on a tentative list for World Heritage consideration. The current government has cited a lack of consultation as the reason for the pause. However, this also presents an opportunity to re-engage meaningfully with Traditional Custodians. 

Concerns have been raised about the potential economic impact of a World Heritage listing, particularly in areas reliant on mining or pastoral activity. However, the nomination process is long and rigorous. Sites must demonstrate "Outstanding Universal Value" and meet specific criteria. Only the Australian Government can nominate places, and final approval rests with the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

Cape York spans over 137,000 square kilometres and is home to fewer than 8,000 people, including more than 3,600 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents. The region is rich in ecological and cultural significance, with sites such as Quinkan Country and the Flinders Island Group renowned for their extensive Aboriginal rock art. These artworks depict spirit beings, animals, people, and ancestral stories, reflecting thousands of years of cultural knowledge and connection to Country.

Beyond rock art, Cape York’s landscapes include savanna, remnant rainforest, and river-fed wetlands. These areas have been shaped over millennia by ancestral creation beings and Traditional Owner stewardship, making them important both culturally and environmentally. 

Importantly, World Heritage listing does not override land ownership or prevent existing industries. In places like the Willandra Lakes region in New South Wales, sheep grazing continues. Recreational fishing is allowed in the Great Barrier Reef, and Budj Bim in Victoria showcases how cultural tourism can thrive alongside heritage protection. These examples show that heritage and industry can successfully coexist. 

Adding Cape York to the World Heritage List would offer international recognition, new funding opportunities, stronger planning and management, and greater support for Aboriginal ranger programs. It also aligns with the Queensland Government’s own tourism and economic goals.

There is growing support to expand the nomination to include other culturally significant areas such as the giant shell mounds around Weipa, Jiigurru (Lizard Island), and additional parts of the Flinders Island Group.

Now is the time for the Queensland Government to re-engage with Traditional Owners and pursue a nomination that supports both conservation and economic development. With genuine consultation, World Heritage status could help Cape York thrive culturally, environmentally, and economically.