AICCM is establishing a Working Group to coordinate Australia’s participation in ISO Technical Committee 346 (ISO/TC 346) on Conservation of Cultural Heritage. This is your opportunity to contribute Australian conservation expertise and perspectives to international standards development.
Why does this matter?
ISO/TC 346 develops international standards that influence how conservation is practiced, taught, and resourced globally. Australia holds ‘P’ (participating member) status through Standards Australia, which means we have the opportunity—and responsibility—to actively shape these standards. Without coordinated participation, we risk losing this status and our voice in standards that affect Australian conservation practice.
Current standards under development include topics like conservation terminology, wall paintings deterioration, damage classification for silk textiles and calligraphy/painting, surface protection for stone, characterisation of ancient ceramics, and seismic protection of museum collections.
Two ways to get involved
1. Join the Working Group (Core positions)
We’re seeking nominations for:
- Chair (3-year term)
- Deputy Chair (2-year term)
- Secretary (2-year term)
- Core Members (3-4 positions, 2-year terms)
Time commitment: Quarterly video conference meetings, plus participation in standards review cycles (typically 4-6 weeks for each standard, anticipated 2-4 per year).
What we’re looking for: We need representation across objects conservation, natural science collections, built heritage/archaeology, conservation science, and First Nations cultural heritage perspectives. The Chair should have experience in conservation standards, policy development, or international collaboration.
To nominate yourself, please provide:
- Your name and contact detail
- Your area(s) of expertise/practice
- A brief statement (200-300 words) about your relevant experience and why you’re interested in contributing
- Confirmation that you can commit to the time requirements
- Which position(s) you’re interested in
2. Register as a Subject Matter Expert
Even if you can’t commit to the Working Group, we want to hear from you! We’re building a register of Australian conservation professionals with specialised expertise who can be consulted to review draft standards in their areas.
Time commitment: Occasional (typically 4-6 weeks when a relevant standard is circulated for review, possibly 1-2 times per year depending on your expertise areas).
To register, please provide:
- Your name and contact details
- Your specific areas of expertise (e.g., wall paintings, textiles, stone conservation, ceramics, seismic protection, natural science collections, etc.)
- Brief note on your relevant experience/qualifications
How to express your interest
Please send your nomination or expert registration to secretariat@aiccm.org.au by 27th March 2026.
Questions? Contact Heather Bleechmore at heather.bleechmore@australian.museum
All Working Group members must be financial AICCM members. Nominations will be reviewed by AICCM National Council.