The Public Record Office Victoria (PROV) is a valuable resource for those researching historical records, tracing their family tree, or locating information about individuals from Victoria’s past. Using its extensive archive of government and public records, PROV offers tools and services to help you uncover valuable details about people who lived, worked, or interacted in Victoria.

To begin your search, head to the PROV website. The site’s search function allows you to explore records dating back to the 19th century. Start by entering the name of the person you’re seeking into the search bar. From court records to wills, immigration details, and residential information, PROV’s databases can reveal personal and professional facets of individuals’ lives. For those with more specific needs, advanced search filters allow you to refine results by date, location, and record type.

One of the most popular collections for genealogical and historical research is the Victorian birth, death, and marriage records. These provide essential data for tracking family connections and verifying life events. Additionally, PROV holds passenger records for immigrants arriving in Victoria, a handy resource for those researching their ancestry. For individuals connected to landownership or disputes, land and property records can offer further insights.

Using the PROV website is free, and many records are digitised for immediate access. However, for physical documents, visiting the PROV Reading Room in North Melbourne or submitting a request for specific files may be necessary.