Factbox-Australia to raise protection for Aboriginal heritage after Juukan

FILE PHOTO: Aboriginal groups' members take part in a protest against what they say is a lack of detail and consultation on new heritage protection laws, after the Rio Tinto mining group destroyed ancient rock shelters for an iron ore mine last year, in Perth, Australia August 19, 2021. Courtesy Gabrielle Timmins/Kimberley Land Council/Handout via REUTERS

Australia will strengthen laws to better protect Aboriginal cultural heritage following an enquiry into Rio Tinto's destruction of historically and culturally significant rock shelters at Juukan Gorge.

Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek published a government response to the 16-month enquiry on Thursday.