State Records of South Australia is the official custodian for archival records created by State and Local Government Agencies within South Australia. Repository for official records which have ceased to be in current administrative use or which are older than 15 years can be made available.

If you’re searching for historical information about people in South Australia, the State Records of South Australia is an invaluable resource. Through their online catalogue, accessible at State Records Catalogue, you can explore a vast collection of government and community records dating back to the European settlement of South Australia.

Using the State Records for Research

The State Records catalogue contains documents including birth, death, and marriage records, immigration records, school admissions, employment details, land ownership files, and more. These records are particularly helpful for genealogical research or uncovering historical details about individuals in South Australia.

To begin your search, visit the online catalogue and look for keyword search options. Use names, locations, or specific years to narrow your search. For example, if you’re researching a family member who arrived in South Australia in the 19th century, immigration records housed within the archives can provide passenger lists that identify individuals and their origins. Similarly, if you’re researching someone’s work history, certain occupation records are available, which may include public service employment documents.

Tips for Effective Searching

• Start Broad: If you’re unsure of exact spellings or dates, begin with broader terms. You can refine results as you find relevant information.
• Explore Indexes: Some records have accompanying indexes, which are valuable for finding more specific details quickly.
• Understand Privacy Restrictions: Some records may be restricted due to privacy laws. Always check access terms and conditions or contact the archive team if you’re unsure.

Additional Support

The State Records also provides research assistance. If you’re unable to find what you’re looking for through the online catalogue, you can contact their team for guidance. They also offer tools like fact sheets and guides to help you understand what records are available and how to search for specific types of information.