National Archives of Australia continues to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in finding information about themselves, their Country and their history.

A recent upgrade of the National Archives' Bringing Them Home name index will improve access to records relating to family, community and Country for peoples.

The Bringing Them Home name index is an application used to search names and places of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in archival records.

The recent upgrade, launched during NAIDOC Week 2022, delivers enhanced functionality, including the ability to sort results, refine searches and generate reports. It will also ensure data relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is preserved and accessible for future generations who seek to learn more about their heritage.

National Archives Director-General Simon Froude said the upgrade reinforces National Archives' commitment to improving access to government records for First Nations peoples.

'Archives all over the world continue to play an ever-increasing role in setting to right the injustices of our nations' past, particularly the treatment of First Nations peoples and others impacted by government policy.'

'Improving access to government records for First Nations peoples and others impacted by past government practice is one area to which we will continue to focus our energy.'

Phyllis Williams, Director, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement said, while the name index has been maintained over the years, there has not been a significant technical refresh since its implementation in 1998.'

'This upgrade will ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can continue to access Indigenous cultural heritage held by National Archives. Access to archival collections and information is a crucial focus of the work we are doing in consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.'

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can be supported by National Archives staff who will search the index for a family name or place name for them, to help re-establish family and community links.

Registered users of organisations with a memorandum of understanding with the National Archives can also search the Bringing Them Home name index, and submit requests for information.

National Archives has memorandum arrangements with Link-Up organisations in the Northern Territory, South Australia, Victoria and Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies.

For more information about the Bringing Them Home name index and where to access it, visit Bringing Them Home name index.

Available for interview:

Phyllis Williams

Director, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement