Understanding history before it shapes your project.
Historic heritage due diligence and archival research is the essential first step in any project that may intersect with historic heritage values in Western Australia. Before a heritage impact assessment is prepared, before a development application is lodged and before any works affecting a potentially significant place are proposed, understanding the history of a site — who was there, what happened, what was built and what survives — is fundamental to making sound heritage decisions and avoiding costly complications later in the project.
Trace Archaeology conducts historic heritage due diligence and archival research for property developers, landowners, architects, local governments and government agencies across WA. Our research establishes a clear, evidence-based historical narrative for each site — drawing on the full range of primary and secondary sources available to provide a thorough account of the place's history, its development over time and its potential heritage significance under the Heritage Act 2018 (WA) and relevant local planning frameworks.
Our archival research draws on a comprehensive range of sources — including Landgate historical plans and certificates of title, State Records Office of WA files and photographs, State Library of WA collections, DPLH heritage database records, local government heritage schedules and rate books, historical newspaper archives, Battye Library collections and other primary sources relevant to the place and its period. We identify former structures, land uses, ownership histories and associated persons or events that may contribute to the heritage significance of the site.
We review the State Heritage Register, the DPLH inHerit database, local government heritage schedules and the Heritage Act 2018 to establish the current statutory heritage status of the site and any adjoining or nearby places — providing a clear picture of the heritage regulatory context that will govern any proposed works or development. Where the research identifies potential significance, we advise on the appropriate next steps — whether that is a formal heritage assessment, an application for removal from the State Heritage Register, consultation with the State Heritage Office or another course of action.
Our due diligence reports are clear, structured documents that give developers, architects and project managers the heritage intelligence they need to plan and design with confidence — knowing exactly what the historical record reveals and what it means for their project.
Trace Archaeology is a division of Trace Enterprises — Perth's only fully integrated heritage, environmental and planning consultancy.
Every heritage and environmental project starts with the right conversation.
Whatever your heritage or environmental project needs, Trace Archaeology and Trace Ecology is ready to help. Talk to our team today — no obligation.