The Victorian Archaeological and Aboriginal Relics Preservation Act1972 provides protection for Aboriginal cultural heritage. Except for human remains buried after 1834, this Act provides 'blanket' or automatic protection for all Aboriginal 'relics' (including sites, artefacts and human remains) relating to the Aboriginal occupation of Victoria, both before and after European settlement.

Powers and responsibilities under the Act are assigned to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and administered by Aboriginal Affairs Victoria (AAV). Under this Act it is an offence to damage or interfere with a relic. Any person who finds a site, burial or artefact must report the discovery to AAV.

The Act also establishes administrative procedures for archaeological investigations and requires the keeping of a register of identified Aboriginal 'relics'. This register is maintained by AAV and currently includes more than 22,000 records. The Act also prohibits the sale of Aboriginal artefacts without a permit (excluding items made for commercial purposes) and restricts the possession, control or display of Aboriginal skeletal remains.