Using the collection
The National Archives collection mainly documents Australian Government activities since Federation in 1901. Most of our records are files of documents, but our collection includes posters, plans, films, sound recordings, videotapes, digital records and many photographs.
Under the Archives Act 1983, most Commonwealth records are available for public access once they enter the open access period.
To access records you can:
- search the collection online
- follow the step-by-step guide for researchers
- see what's in the collection
- or ask us a question about records in the collection.
You can also visit a reading room to view original records and conduct further research.
There is no charge to view original records or to use research aids. We do charge for ordering copies of records from our collection.