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GNB functions

As set out in the Geographical Names Act 1966, the Board has the following powers and functions:

  • assign names to places
  • approve that a recorded name of a place shall be its geographical name
  • alter a recorded name or a geographical name
  • determine whether the use of a recorded name or a geographical name shall be discontinued
  • adopt rules of orthography, nomenclature and pronunciation with respect to geographical names
  • investigate and determine the form, spelling, meaning, pronunciation, origin and history of any geographical name
  • the application of any geographical name with regard to position, extent or otherwise
  • compile and maintain a vocabulary of Aboriginal words used or suitable for use in geographical names and to record their meaning and origin
  • compile and maintain a dictionary of geographical names with a record of their form, spelling, meaning, pronunciation, origin and history
  • publish a gazetteer of geographical names
  • inquire into and make recommendations on any matters relating to the names of places referred to it by the Minister
  • compile, maintain and publish a list of road names.

The Board proactively seeks to abide by these statutory provisions through the adoption of nomenclature policies and procedures which are both nationally and internationally recognised.

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