Access to records is fundamental to the study of history. Original documents and materials are the raw fabric of history and engagement with the sources is critical to historical practice.

Some factors that affect access to records include the funding of cultural institutions and libraries; the process of digitising archives; opening hours; and fees and charges for accessing records.

Our policy is to maintain and improve open and affordable access to historical materials and resources wherever possible.

Recent activities

NAA office closures

In November 2009 the National Archives of Australia announced it's intention to close its offices in Darwin, Adelaide and Tasmania, relocating those collections to Canberra and Sydney. The Council believes that affordable access to historical records is imperative to the vitality of history in this country. See our Executive Summary for more information. A good overview of this issue is also available on the Australian Society of Archivists website.

Born digital records

Born digital records are files that are electronically created and stored such as email, computer documents, websites, blogs and other online documents. They are the records future historians will need to access. Read about the issues concerning digital born files in our Executive Summary.

State Library of NSW digitisation project

In August 2007 the Council represented the history community at a meeting with the State Government’s Evaluation Committee responsible for assessing the State Library of NSW’s application for funding the digitization of its entire collection. Vice President, Lisa Murray met with the panel to provide information from a researcher's perspective for the critical need for the library to have 100% of its collections with electronic records available in online catalogues to assist with research and access to holdings.