The collection managed by National Archives of Australia is vast and diverse – maps, photos, paintings, Cabinet decisions, ASIO films, lighthouse logs, diaries, letters, top secret files, UFO sightings and much more.
Part of this collection is an amazing range of audiovisual records that provide a unique insight into our country’s history.
Sometimes, when working with these records, little glittering nuggets find their way to the surface. National Archives' reference team recently found one such treasure – footage of the 1974 joint sitting of Parliament after the double dissolution.
This was an historic occasion, as the first and only time a joint sitting had been conducted to resolve a legislative deadlock.
The stalemate sparked this unique event in politics, forcing a showdown to pass the government’s outstanding legislations and consider vital issues of the day.
The sitting would also be broadcast on ABC television. This was the first time Australians could see the workings of Parliament at close hand. Temporary lighting facilities were set up in the chamber, reminiscent of a movie studio, with a broadcast van posted outside the building. The television coverage was broadcast in black-and-white on 6 and 7 August 1974 (colour broadcasting started in March 1975).
Imagine the delight of National Archives staff when they revealed during its treatment that while broadcast in black-and-white, the footage itself was filmed in colour – capturing the extraordinary atmosphere (and fashion). The historic event was brought to life in a way that hadn’t been seen before.
