7. Policies

7.1. Background

The policies are derived from a consideration of:

the heritage values of Old Parliament House
the identified risks to those values
the uses, constraints and opportunities affecting the place.

The policies form a framework for the management of the heritage values of Old Parliament House in their sociocultural, commercial and environmental context. (See Appendix G for the rationales and commentaries supporting the policies.)

The policies inform the zones and their statements of intent and objectives (see Zones, Chapter 8).

The zones enact the intent of the policy framework in relation to the conservation and management of the different areas of the building which embody the diverse aspects of the heritage values.

The specific tasks associated with these policies are described in the Implementation Plan (see Chapter 14).

7.2. The Policies

There are eight key policy areas:

1. Conservation

This policy provides the framework for the physical conservation of the heritage values of Old Parliament House. It outlines the framework for undertaking conservation work, conservation management activities and ongoing research.

1. Management approach

This policy provides the framework for assessing and making robust decisions about Action Proposals.

1. Documentation and monitoring

This policy provides for the recording of change at Old Parliament House and for monitoring and evaluating the performance of the policies.

1. Communication and interpretation

This policy provides for consultation with community and stakeholders and for the interpretation and promotion of the heritage values of the place.

1. Existing and future uses

This policy provides the framework for the continuation or cessation of existing uses and for the facilitation of new uses.

1. Access, security, plant and services

This policy provides for the conservation of the heritage values of Old Parliament House in the context of facilitating access, security requirements, plant and services.

1. Acquisitions, disposals and leasing

This policy provides direction for accessioning, deaccessioning, leasing and other forms of disposal or acquisition of parts of Old Parliament House, including movable heritage.