World Wide Diplomatic Archives Index: Australia
Legislation
The public may apply for access to any Commonwealth records that are more than 30 years old. If a member of the public requires access to a Commonwealth record more than 30 years old that is not in a National Archives repository, the Archives, in cooperation with the Australian Government agency with custody of the record, will facilitate the provision of access to that record. Under the Freedom of Information Act, public researchers may apply for special access to records that are younger than 30 years old on the basis that they are preparing a major work of national significance for publication.
Location
The National Archives has offices in Canberra, Darwin and the State Capitals.
Procedures
Researchers may visit any of the locations of the National Archives, but they are advised to write to the Archives staff ahead of time to ensure a timely start to their inquiries. E-mail addresses and phone numbers are found on the website.
Website
Published Documents
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade also has a Historical Documents Project Section which produces the series, Documents on Australian Foreign Policy.