Yesterday marked special recognition of the National Archives’ importance to the government and the people of Australia.

Senator John Faulkner, Special Minister of State and Cabinet Secretary, announced the National Archives would become part of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. 

Our move to this key agency of government comes into effect immediately, and further emphasises the central role of the National Archives, our part in the protection of Australia’s democratic system, and our importance to the nation.

Senator John Faulkner remains our Minister, and although this is a portfolio change, we will maintain our current focus, and in particular our role as a key national cultural institution.

The National Archives’ responsibility for preserving vital Commonwealth government records and also providing access to them for current and future generations of Australians fits neatly with the group of governance and accountability agencies in the Department, including the Australian Public Service Commission, the Commonwealth Ombudsman, the Australian National Audit Office, the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security, the Office of the Privacy Commissioner, and the Office of Freedom of Information. 

Senator Faulkner also announced that Old Parliament House will be established as an executive agency under his responsibility in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, from 1 July. This change can only enhance the Archives’ close working relationship with Old Parliament House.

Ross Gibbs
Director-General
National Archives of Australia

2 May 2008