This paper is about the Burra Charter and how, since its inception in 1979 and over the ensuing years, it has translated into reality on the ground around Australia. Each of Australia’s state and territory’s planning instruments has been examined to see if the charter has been incorporated into the scheme, whether or not it has been used as a reference or for statutory control. A numerical analysis of the outcome across the nation is undertaken. This is then followed by an investigation of some case studies that use those statutory instruments that refer to the Burra Charter. The relevant input of people, place and practice is then considered for their applicability in the use of the Burra Charter in each and how this has influenced the inclusion or otherwise of the theories and practices encapsulated within the Burra Charter. The question is then asked as to how the people involved in the decision making, the relevant theories and the practices undertaken to achieve the outcomes desired have demonstrated a connection to the place and if this has been successful in achieving the goals of these theories and practices. An assessment is then made of whether or not the Burra Charter has been used, successfully or otherwise, to come to what can be considered an acceptable heritage outcome.
