The Aboriginal Affairs Planning Authority (AAPA) operated from 16 June 1972 to 31 October 1994 as the key government organisation responsible for Aboriginal matters in Western Australia. Although it continued the Department of Native Welfare, the AAPA did not carry forward the responsibilities for the welfare of Aboriginal children. These functions had been transferred to the Department for Community Welfare when the AAPA was created. From 1 November 1994, AAPA continued as the Aboriginal Affairs Department.