There are over 3600 entries in this Index.
Accessing the records
Copies of the remissions of sentences can be viewed in our reading rooms on microfilm [Reel 601] and in book form [COD18].
You can also order copies of the records online via the search facility. Simply 'tick' the relevant search result(s) and follow the instructions.
The copy service fee is $25.00 (includes administration, postage/handling and the first entry). Additional entries are $1.50 each.
» See more about our copy services
About the records
Tickets of Leave
A ticket of leave allowed convicts to work for themselves on condition that they remained in a specified area, reported regularly to local authorities and if at all possible, attend divine worship every Sunday.
Pardons
Convicts with life sentences generally received pardons. The two main types of pardons were:
- Conditional pardon - the convict was free as long as they remained in the colony.
- Absolute pardon - the convict's sentence was entirely remitted. They were free both within and outside of the colony and could return to Britain.
Certificates of Freedom
A certificate of freedom was a document stating that a convict's sentence had been served.
What records have been indexed?
NRS 1166, Lists of tickets of leave issued, 2 Jul 1810-26 Feb 1811; 9 June 1810-3 Oct 1814, Reel 601, COD 18
NRS 1165, Copies of returns of Absolute and Conditional Pardons granted, Reel 601, COD 18
Includes:
* Free (absolute) pardons, 7 Mar 1810-18 May 1813; 22 Feb 1814-14 Jun 1819
* Conditional pardons, 15 Jun 1810-4 Oct 1813; 3 Nov-24 Dec 1813; 1 Jan 1814-31 Jan 1815
NRS 12208, Register of Certificates of Freedom (Certificates of Emancipation), 5 Feb 1810-26 Aug 1814, Reel 601, COD 18
NRS 1167, Return of pardons and certificates of freedom surrendered*, 29 Jan 1810-18 Feb 1811, Reel 601, COD 18
*In a despatch to Viscount Castlereagh dated 8 March 1810 Governor Macquarie wrote:
"The trials which took place during the Usurpation have been annulled by Public Proclamation. The Grants of Lands and of Stock, and Leases, have been revoked in the same manner, and also the All Pardons and Emancipations granted to Convicts.... " (Historical Records of Australia I Vol 7 p.220 ).
This refers to those pardons issued after the arrest and removal of Governor Bligh. Macquarie examined those surrendered (those issued during the administrations of Johnston, Foveaux and Patterson) and he reissued those which he regarded as valid or warranted.
Feedback
We would appreciate any feedback and suggestions you may have on using the Index.