The Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority (AAPA) has closed its investigation into the removal of a sacred site tree on South Terrace, confirming Council acted in accordance with the relevant Authority Certificate and the Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act 1989.
AAPA’s assessment considered the circumstances surrounding the removal, including the short period between a limb falling from the tree and Council determining that its removal was necessary to address an immediate public safety risk.
“The outcome confirms Council’s team followed the requirements in place while responding to an immediate safety issue,” Council said in a statement.
“Council remains committed to protecting sacred sites, continually reviewing its processes and working closely with AAPA to ensure its responsibilities are understood and upheld.”
