Impact of Protection of Movable Cultural Heritage Act 1986 on the Preservation of Art and Antiques

The Impact of “Protection of Movable Cultural Heritage Act 1986” on the Preservation of Art and Antiques

The term ‘art and antiques’ has been a subject of fascination and appreciation for centuries. However, with the increase in demand, the protection of these precious objects has become a major concern. The Protection of Movable Cultural Heritage Act 1986 was passed in Australia to provide safeguarding measures, and its impact has been significant. This article looks at the impact of the act on preserving the country’s art and antiques for future generations.

What is the Protection of Movable Cultural Heritage Act 1986?

The Protection of Movable Cultural Heritage Act 1986 (PMCH Act) is an Australian Commonwealth law that protects significant cultural material from being taken out of the country. It defines movable cultural heritage as any object that has historical, scientific, cultural, or aesthetic significance. The act provides for the preservation of such objects, their transfer from one place to another, and the repatriation of those that have been taken out of the country illegally.

Impact of PMCH Act on Preservation of Art and Antiques

Since the enactment of the PMCH Act, there has been a considerable impact on the preservation of Australia’s art and antiques. The act complements other acts, such as the National Cultural Heritage Act, to protect the country’s cultural and historical significance. Here are a few ways the PMCH Act has impacted the preservation of Australia’s art and antiques:

1. Increased protection

The PMCH Act prohibits the export of any object defined as movable cultural heritage from Australia unless an export permit has been granted. This has significantly reduced the loss of important cultural objects to other countries. The act also provides for the registration and assessment of movable cultural heritage to ensure they are correctly identified and valued. This registration process facilitates their protection and establishes their continuity.

2. Repatriation of looted art

The PMCH Act has been crucial in the repatriation of stolen and illicitly acquired cultural objects. Australia has reclaimed several significant cultural materials trodden under the PMCH Act, such as Aboriginal artifacts and ceremonial objects that were taken out of the country without permission. The repatriation of these materials to their rightful owners and country of origin has contributed significantly to preserving the cultural heritage of Australia.

3. Funding for protection

The PMCH Act has facilitated the process of obtaining funding for the protection of movable cultural heritage objects. The act establishes the National Cultural Heritage Account, which provides for grants to assist with the preservation of cultural objects. These grants fund activities such as identification, restoration, and acquisition of objects of national significance.

Conclusion

The Protection of Movable Cultural Heritage Act 1986 plays a significant role in preserving Australia’s art and antiques. It provides a comprehensive legal framework for protection, assessment, and registration of movable cultural heritage objects, impacting the country’s preservation efforts positively. The act has also facilitated repatriation efforts and funding for the preservation of critical cultural materialings. Through the PMCH Act, Australia has taken significant steps towards continuing its cultural heritage for future generations.

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