Overview
The Protection of Movable Cultural Heritage Act 1986 governs the control and protection of Australia's cultural heritage objects that are movable, preventing unlawful export and ensuring compliance with established guidelines. The Act defines cultural heritage items, provides mechanisms to grant permits or certificates of exemption for export, establishes the National Cultural Heritage Committee with defined duties, and creates a National Cultural Heritage Account for funding related activities. It also outlines enforcement measures, including powers for inspectors, the issuance of search warrants, and procedures regarding seizure of protected objects. Furthermore, it includes provisions for international cooperation regarding the return of objects.