Conduct field research into natural and cultural resources

Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 12:28 AM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Unit of competency

National Code
AHCOCM501

State Code
OFC61

TGA Status
Current

DTWD Status
Approved

Current Release Number
1.00

Current Release Date
24/01/2023

View on TGA

State Implementation and Classification

Approved Date

09/06/2023

Field of Education

090311 - Indigenous Studies

Original Release Date

09/06/2023

Nominal Hours

180

Description

This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to conduct field research into natural resource and cultural areas for resource management and related purposes.The unit applies to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people who have responsibility to gather appropriate research information to assist in the management of natural and cultural resources.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.

Notes

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Review existing knowledge

1.1 Examine existing information gathered through previous investigation to determine key features
1.2 Identify information, records and places previously destroyed or damaged or under threat and report to management
1.3 Assess scope of information for adequacy against the requirements of legislation, codes of practice, guidelines and cultural protocols
1.4 Identify and access appropriate electronic and manual recording systems for data collection
1.5 Identify and access sources of expertise in research environments
1.6 Identify and record areas of inadequate information

2. Identify appropriate stakeholders

2.1 Consult with local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Communities and authorised individuals
2.2 Conduct interviews under the direction of a relevant cultural reference group and according to organisational requirements
2.3 Investigate and record the current and relevant past land tenure for the site
2.4 Investigate Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples' interests with regard to regional and Community organisations
2.5 Apply cultural protocols and conduct key consultations with regional and local Community organisations and individuals
2.6 Comply with privacy requirements according to the directions of stakeholders and legislative and organisation requirements

3. Develop research approach

3.1 Determine objectives of the field research in conjunction with key stakeholders
3.2 Use objectives to identify specific types of investigation, techniques to be used, and physical areas of investigation
3.3 Assess the types of investigation to be utilised
3.4 Review existing information and data records to determine the starting points for the fieldwork
3.5 Ensure research methodology is consistent with the research objectives
3.6 Identify and access required resources to establish and maintain the research program
3.7 Select appropriate research personnel and identify stakeholders to be included in the consultation process
3.8 Identify research techniques and safe operations within expected environmental and cultural conditions
3.9 Estimate and submit costs of field research for approval
3.10 Establish sampling and recording processes for research information according to best practice and scientific standards
3.11 Ensure investigations comply with guidelines and other legislative requirements

4. Develop process for involving decision-makers

4.1 Use information on stakeholders to determine interests held by organisations, groups and individuals, and cultural dimensions
4.2 Define and document issues to be addressed with interest groups
4.3 Develop consultation and decision-making process to address the issues with individuals, groups and organisations using appropriate cultural protocols
4.4 Provide appropriate time for consultative processes within groups and between individuals to occur and to obtain feedback on issues
4.5 Form a decision-making group, to assist in direct investigation, accessing information to address issues and/or review the significance of place or area

5. Conduct field investigations

5.1 Follow work health and safety, environmental sustainability and biosecurity policies and procedures when working in field
5.2 Inspect sites to assess condition and availability of further information
5.3 Adjust previously determined methodology considering progressive results and stakeholder feedback
5.4 Coordinate observations, records and monitoring in accordance with scientific practice and to meet research objectives
5.5 Determine ecological, biological and geological, microbiological and entomological diversity within specified area
5.6 Source appropriate equipment and skills for the capture, management and sampling of animal species
5.7 Identify and record evidence of culturally significant resources in area using appropriate recording equipment
5.8 Identify and record impacts from areas external to natural and cultural resources in area under investigation
5.9 Deploy equipment, techniques and people to carry out investigations
5.10 Document and approve each field operation according to legislative and organisation requirements for work in the research environment

6. Report on the field investigation outcomes

6.1 Analyse and record information for impact since previous report and other resources
6.2 Document outcomes according to legislative requirements, the organisation’s policies and practices, and international and national processes
6.3 Brief stakeholders and record draft findings
6.4 Develop and submit a determination of significance report to the organisation and its external review processes as required by legislation and codes of practice

No information

Replaces

State Code	National Code	Title	Type
BAS39	AHCILM501	Conduct field research into natural and cultural resources	Unit of competency

State Code	National Code	Title	Type
BGF9	AHC51120	Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management	Qualification