Key Resources and Websites for Indigenous Australian Family History Research

Researching Indigenous Australian family history involves a combination of oral history, government records, archival collections, and specialist support services. Below is a comprehensive list of national and state-based resources and sites to assist your genealogical journey.

National Resources

• Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS)
  • Offers extensive guides, a Family History Kit, and research assistance, including access to the Aboriginal Biographical Index (ABI) and the Mura online catalogue^[1][2][3][4].
  • Website: AIATSIS Family History
• National Library of Australia (NLA)
  • Provides guides, access to ancestry records, and the Trove digital archive (newspapers, photos, government gazettes)^[1][5][4].
  • Website: NLA First Australians Family History
• National Archives of Australia
  • Holds records such as military service, missions, and government files relevant to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples^[1][6][4].
• Centre for Indigenous Family History Studies (CIFHS)
  • Contains digitized records and references to government files, including file numbers for follow-up^[6][3].
• Find & Connect
  • Brings together historical resources relating to institutional care in Australia, including Aboriginal children^[6][4].

State and Territory Resources

Specialist Collections and Archives

• Norman Tindale Collection (South Australian Museum and other institutions)
  • Genealogies, maps, and information cards from expeditions across Australia in the 20th century^[1][6][7].
• Margaret Lawrie Collection (State Library of Queensland)
  • Torres Strait Islander genealogies and oral histories^[1].

Support and Guidance

• Link-Up Services
  • Offer research, reunions, and wellbeing services for Stolen Generations and their families, particularly in NSW^[1][6].
• Aboriginal Family History Units
  • Many state libraries and museums have dedicated units to assist Indigenous Australians with genealogical research^[6][7].

Practical Research Tips

• Start by interviewing family members and gathering documents (birth, marriage, death certificates, letters, photos)^[1][5].
• Use state and national archives, libraries, and specialized Indigenous collections for deeper research^[1][6][2][5].
• Be aware that some records may be distressing or use outdated language^[1].
• Keep detailed notes and track sources for future reference^[1].

Summary Table: Key Websites

These resources provide a robust starting point for anyone seeking to trace Indigenous Australian ancestry, whether for personal, cultural, or community reasons. Many offer personalized assistance, downloadable guides, and access to unique archival materials^{[1][6][2][5][3][4]}.

1. https://www.library.gov.au/research/family-history/first-australians-family-history
2. https://aiatsis.gov.au/family-history
3. https://aiatsis.gov.au/family-history/research-step-step/search-records
4. https://guides.slv.vic.gov.au/aboriginalfamilyhistory/national
5. https://www.indigenous.gov.au/stories/family-history-month-researching-your-indigenous-ancestors
6. https://www.findandconnect.gov.au/finding-family/family-history-research/
7. https://www.samuseum.sa.gov.au/collection/archives/family-history