Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries – Aboriginal History WA

Provides family history research to help Aboriginal people learn more about themselves and their ancestors. Aboriginal History WA manages access to restricted State Government records relating to Aboriginal people, and undertakes truth-telling projects that help to build shared understanding of our history. Services include:

• Family history research
• General research
• Native Title research

Funding

• WA Government

Eligibility & Access

• Family History Research: Aboriginal people seeking information about themselves or their direct ancestors can request access to records. This service is free and aims to help individuals connect with their heritage.
• General Researchers: Members of the public, including authors, academics, and anyone with an interest in Aboriginal history, can request access to the managed records.
• Native Title Research: Entities engaged in Native Title research, such as Native Title Representative Bodies and respondent parties, can request copies of managed records.

Partnerships

• State Library of Western Australia
• State Records Office
• The Healing Foundation

Achievements

• Created and maintained several databases, such as the Carrolup Settlement database, the Aboriginal Trackers of Western Australia Index, and the Moore River Native Settlement database.
• Helped many Aboriginal people trace their family history through restricted government records. Produced a variety of publications with the purpose of truth-telling and education on our history.