A site in Victoria that’s older than the pyramids, the Acropolis and Stonehenge has been added to the world heritage list.

The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape in south-west Victoria became the first in Australia to receive world heritage protection solely for its Aboriginal cultural importance.

It was added to the Unesco world heritage list at a meeting in Baku, Azerbaijan on Saturday following a decades-long campaign by traditional owners, some of whom were present for the announcement.

“This is a very special day for our community. This landscape, which we have cared for over thousands of years, is so important to Gunditjmara People,” elder Denise Lovett said in a statement.

“The decision also recognises Budj Bim’s significance to all of humanity. We are so proud to now be able to share our achievements and story with the world.”

Budj Bim, one of Victoria’s most treasured Aboriginal sites, now has world heritage status after a long campaign by traditional owners. Photograph: Denis Rose

The site was created about 6,600 years ago by the Gunditjmara people and is considered one of the world’s oldest freshwater aquaculture systems.

The site features the remnants of about 300 round stone huts that are the only remaining permanent houses built by an indigenous community in Australia – challenging the common perception that all Aboriginal people were nomadic.

Budj Bim is the 20th site in Australia to make it to the 1,000-strong list and the second for Victoria alongside the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens, which was listed in 2004.

Other Australian world heritage sites include the Great Barrier Reef, Kakadu national park and the Sydney Opera House.