Media Release: ACMS in Paris: South Australia’s Heritage Hits the Global Stage

South Australia’s journey toward World Heritage status has taken a significant step forward with the Australian Cornish Mining Sites: Burra and Moonta Preliminary Assessment Request officially handed over to UNESCO in Paris.

On Friday, the Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Senator the Hon Murray Watt, signed off on the submission on behalf of the Commonwealth. The document was then delivered to UNESCO headquarters in Paris on Monday.

This is a proud moment for South Australia, placing the story of Cornish mining heritage firmly on the global stage. It recognises the extraordinary legacy of Burra and Moonta, two towns whose ingenuity, determination and culture shaped not only South Australia but also global mining history.

To date, the nomination process has been completely community led and funded, with the Consortium now seeking grant and sponsorship opportunities to support the next pivotal steps toward full World Heritage nomination.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity,” said Copper Coast Council Mayor and Chair of the Consortium, Mrs Roslyn Talbot. “The Cornish mining story is one of resilience, innovation and community, and its legacy lives on today through our magnificent sites, cultural events such as the Kernewek Lowender and Back to Burra, and even in the naming of our road networks. And who can look past the Cornish Pasty!”

National Trust SA President, Mrs Millie Nicholls, added, “The Australian Cornish Mining Sites tell a remarkable story of migration, innovation and cultural exchange. Cornish miners brought advanced mining skills along with traditions of chapel, community and resilience. Their impact transformed South Australia, establishing it as a global copper supplier and leaving a lasting cultural identity. Now this story is being recognised internationally.”

Looking ahead, 2028 is set to be a pivotal year – with the Australian Cornish Mining Sites likely to be the nomination chosen to be put forward by Australia to UNESCO for full World Heritage consideration. This unique position highlights Burra and Moonta’s place at the forefront of Australia’s heritage ambitions.

World Heritage listing would place Burra and Moonta alongside iconic Australian sites such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Sydney Opera House. It would bring global recognition to their rich cultural landscapes, foster community pride and unlock new opportunities in tourism and international engagement.

“This handover in Paris isn’t the finish line - it’s just the start,” said Regional Council of Goyder Mayor, Mr Bill Gebhardt. “There’s so much to look forward to, and we’re proud our communities can share South Australia’s mining story with the world.”

This milestone also shines a spotlight on the communities who have worked tirelessly to protect, celebrate and share this heritage. Their passion and dedication have been central to bringing Burra and Moonta to this international moment. National Trust SA and its local branches, the Regional Council of Goyder, and Copper Coast Council have led the charge, with support from stakeholders across community, economic, tourism and multicultural sectors.

With the UNESCO journey now underway, the countdown to 2028 has officially begun.

Enquiries:

Holly Cowan
Community Engagement Coordinator
Copper Coast Council
Ph: 8828 1200

Barb Button
Director of Community Engagement and Development
Regional Council of Goyder
Ph: 8892 0100