This collection draws together records relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, events, activism, places, arts and performance.
What we hold
Our archival collection contains limited 19th century records that specifically refer to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities. Formal responsibility for First Nations matters was largely with the state government, rather than managed at local government level. For example, records of the Aborigines Welfare Board in NSW are in the State Archives collection at Museums of History NSW (for access to these records contact Aboriginal Affairs NSW).
Some interactions undoubtedly took place between council officers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the 19th century, but the archives are largely silent about them.
From the 20th century onwards the City Archives holds records relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in relation to City functions.
Archives in this collection
The kinds of records held by the City Archives are highlighted in this collection, however, these are not exhaustive. You may find more items relating to the First Nations community by using the search tool, or contacting the City Archives.
If you wish to use or share an item, please check the item for:
the copyright conditions
the 'Public access note' (in the descriptive text under Access).
The views expressed in these records may not reflect the City’s views, but rather those of the period in which they were created.
The City acknowledges the Gadigal of the Eora Nation as the Traditional Custodians of this place we now call Sydney, and we acknowledge their continued connection to Country. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and emerging.
Sovereignty was never ceded - this always was and always will be Aboriginal Land.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this catalogue contains images and voices of people who have died. In some Aboriginal communities, seeing the names and photographs of dead people may cause sadness and distress, particularly to relatives of those people.
