TWO ARCHAEOLOGICAL OBJECTS RETURNED TO UKRAINE

As part of a special ceremony marking Ukraine’s Independence Day, the Albanese Labor Government has returned two archaeological objects that were illegally exported from Ukraine and imported into Australia in late 2023.

The small items are an iron arrowhead dating from the 12th or 13th century and a pendant from the third millennium BCE that was likely a traditional adornment in the ancient Yamnaya culture.

The objects were intercepted upon arrival in Sydney thanks to cooperation between Ukrainian and Australian customs, and the Office for the Arts. They were subsequently seized under the Protection of Movable Cultural Heritage Act 1986. Their return to the Government of Ukraine was formalised at an Independence Day of Ukraine concert event held in Sydney on 23 August 2025.

Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the return of the objects not only shows adherence to and respect for international laws, but also shows the Australian community’s support for Ukraine.

“Returning these items reflects Australia’s ongoing commitment to combatting illicit trafficking of cultural heritage in all countries, particularly those suffering the hardships of war.

“These objects are part of the history and heritage of the people of Ukraine, which must be preserved for future generations.”

For images of the objects, visit: Returns of foreign cultural property | Office for the Arts

For more information, visit: Movable cultural heritage | Office for the Arts.