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Using the Collection

Some material in the AIATSIS Collection is culturally sensitive and may only be made available to the appropriate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people or those that have permission.

Our access and use policy sets out the conditions under which the collection may be accessed. You may also find our guide to obtaining copies of items in the Collection useful.

If you're looking for a specific collection item or for more information on a subject, you can delve deeper into our collection by using our many guides, finding aids and databases.

There is no charge to view collection items or use research aids on site at AIATSIS. Other access to or use of collection items may attract a fee.

Our staff can help you find information in the AIATSIS& Collection, including:

  • Helping you to find collection items of interest.
  • Providing specialist advice and information about using the Collection.
  • Helping you to locate other research avenues and sources of information.

Unfortunately, we cannot:

  • Provide answers to specific research or assignment questions.
  • Provide advice on personal, medical, financial or legal matters.
  • Conduct research for clients, including family history research however our family history team can help you to undertake the research yourself; our Family History Kit can help with the basics to start tracing your Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage.

Dick Williams from Badu Island in the Torres Strait talks about the importance of having access to materials in the AIATSIS Collection.

Last updated: 29 February 2024