

Archaeological Salvage
Archaeological salvage is a process designed to recover Aboriginal cultural deposits from known Aboriginal places to mitigate potential harm caused by development activities. It is typically required as part of the conditions outlined in an approved Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) and is usually carried out before the commencement of development or activity. In some cases, it may take place during the development. The archaeological salvage process occurs as a last resort, only after attempts to avoid a site have been thoroughly considered and deemed impossible due to the requirements of the development.
Salvage ensures that any remaining cultural deposits within the area are recovered to preserve Aboriginal heritage. The methods used in archaeological salvage can include surface salvage, manual excavation, or mechanical excavation, with the choice of method being determined by a Heritage Advisor in consultation with the relevant RAP (Registered Aboriginal Parties) or Aboriginal Traditional Owner groups. This process is tailored to the specific characteristics of the Aboriginal place being salvaged, such as its size, condition, and the type of cultural material present.
Salvage excavation often represents the final stage of the excavation process and must be carried out in strict compliance with conditions outlined in the CHMP. In addition to the excavation work itself, the salvage process may involve complex stakeholder requirements to address cultural sensitivities and ensure the protection and proper handling of Aboriginal cultural heritage. By following these guidelines, the salvage process mitigates the impact of development on significant cultural sites and preserves important Aboriginal heritage.
The ArchLink team are highly experienced experts in the salvage of archaeological sites of any complexity and extent. We have the complete range of equipment necessary to tackle any scale of archaeological salvage excavations including excavators and custom-built mechanical sieves.







Surface Salvage
Surface salvage programs involve the collection of cultural deposits/artefacts from the ground surface, and do not require sub surface excavation.
Manual Salvage Excavation
Manual salvage programs involve the manual hand excavation of one or more salvage pits. These salvage pits are strategically placed across an activity area in locations that are known or considered most likely to contain sub surface cultural deposits and can vary in size and configuration, depending on what is considered to be most appropriate. In some cases, 100% salvage of an Aboriginal cultural heritage place may be required if it cannot be avoided.
Mechanical Salvage Excavation
Mechanical salvage programs involve the mechanical excavation of one or more salvage pits with an excavator. Like manual salvage programs, these salvage pits are strategically placed across the activity area in locations that are known or considered most likely to contain sub surface deposits and can vary in size and configuration.
Depending on the nature of the Aboriginal place subject to salvage a combination of the above methods may also be employed.
To discuss your project requirements contact us on 0417 658 879 or email info@archlink.com.au.