Researchers are often interested in compiling indexes to State archives, often with a view to publishing the end product. Users of State archives have benefited enormously from these indexing projects over the years.

Indexes are important because they can provide a fast and easy means of access to information held in State archives. They assist researchers by quickly identifying whether information related to their enquiry is located within the relevant series of records held by State Records. The index then provides the information necessary to locate and view the specific record item that contains the information.

If you are considering such a project, we would be delighted to hear from you. Contact the Manager, Public Access before starting work and we can advise you whether there is any overlap with projects being undertaken by State Records or if we are aware of any similar private indexing projects using State archives already underway.

If you are considering publishing the results of your indexing project you also need to need to contact us for permission to publish any Crown copyright material. For more information see Archives in Brief 11 Guidelines to publishing, Archives in Brief 10 Citing State archives, and Archives in Brief 74 Copyright.

When your index is complete we would greatly appreciate copies for our reading rooms, to add to the resources available to all of our researchers.

State Records' volunteers and staff are working on a number of projects aimed at improving the accessibility of the State archives.

These include some online indexes and the addition of item level descriptive information to Archives Investigator. If you would like information about these projects please contact the Manager, Public Access.

You can email the Manager, Public Access or telephone (02) 9673 1788.