Westerners examine and represent Aboriginal heritage spatial information using Western models and for Western applications. For example development in South Australia is affected under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988 by the existence of Aboriginal heritage sites, and so representing these sites spatially is seen to affect decisions about planning and development. Yet Aboriginal people see the protection of heritage as the most important reason.

This presentation argues that an Aboriginal perspective is essential. Aboriginal heritage information comes from Aboriginal people; it has particular cultural meaning for them that is different to Western understandings; it can have strategic uses for them when applied spatially; and inaccuracies and omissions in relation to existing recorded material are most appropriately corrected by Aboriginal people. The process of using this information in a way determined by Aboriginal people is referred to as an ‘Aboriginal methodology’.

What are some applications of an Aboriginal-specific methodology for the use of spatial information? In what ways and for what reasons (spatial or otherwise) should Aboriginal cultural information be shared with the wider Western society; Western maps don't tell about cultural responsibilities where story lines that pass through many countries; maps show firm boundaries that don't reflect traditional practices and politics; and Aboriginal caring for country is holistic not partialized. Decision making about these questions, it is argued, are best managed by Aboriginal people.

This presentation aims to encourage examination of an Aboriginal methodology and for discussions about an inclusive method which can address both the Aboriginal and Western approaches.