Using the National Archives

Special requirements:

Explore this year’s theme of conflict and resolution by using archival records from National Archives of Australia.

National Archives’ special category prize is for excellence in the use of primary sources (archival records) from our collection. 

National Archives’ rich collection of over 50 million records documents key events and decisions that have shaped Australian history.

You may wish to consider one of the following topics in your response to this year’s theme:

Alternatively, you may wish to use archival records to explore how your ancestors’ lives were shaped by conflict and resolution. The national archival collection includes migration records and war service records that may relate to your family story.

Whatever you choose to explore, you must show clear evidence of engagement with the national archival collection. This includes:

  1. Locating archival records through our student research portal or through RecordSearch;
  2. Thoughtfully engaging with these archival records as part of your response to the theme;
  3. Correctly referencing these records – alongside other primary and secondary sources – in your bibliography.

Referencing archival records

Please follow the competition’s referencing guidelines when preparing your bibliography.

Because archival records are a special kind of primary source, you may wish to follow our referencing guidelines for students to correctly reference the archival records that you include in your bibliography.

If you need guidance on using RecordSearch to locate records about your chosen topic or your family story, please explore this guide on our website or reach out by emailing us at learning@naa.gov.au.  

Sponsor Details:

National Archives of Australia

National Archives of Australia

National Office location:
Kings Avenue,
Parkes ACT 2600

Our postal address:
PO Box 4924
Kingston ACT 2604

Phone: + 61 2 6212 3600
Website: Naa.gov.au
Email: learning@naa.gov.au