Research Centre

Access to Official Records

Under the State Records Act, 1997, and after consultation with State Records, it is the Agency responsible for the records that decides whether the public can access a record.

When searching for and ordering records on-line, using ArchivesSearch, you will find that the access determination for many records is described as unrestricted or open. Records classified as unrestricted or open may be viewed at a Research Centre.

The access determination for other records will be described as restricted. To view restricted material, researchers must obtain written permission from the Government Agency that created or is responsible for the material. Research Centre staff are happy to provide advice on the process of gaining access.

For more detailed information on how agencies determine access restriction periods, please refer to the Public Access Determinations Guideline.

Guideline to assist agencies in the development of public access determinations for official records in the custody of State Records or about to be transferred. Public Access Determinations Guideline (119 KB PDF File)

Related Information:

• What about access?
• Managing access to official records
• Public Access to Official Records
• Introduction to ArchivesSearch
• Gepps Cross Research Centre
• City Research Centre and Training Facility
• Research Centres