The Library’s mission

We want to build a rich and diverse collection of all things Australian. But we need your help. We seek unique stories and perspectives that create a living tapestry of the Australian experience. We want to hear voices from all across Australia, past and present. See our collecting strategy for more information.

What we’re looking for right now

First Australians

First Australians stories are a part of the oldest living culture in the world. They are full of rich and deep stories that have been here in Australia since time immemorial. We’re looking for stories, histories, perspectives, and voices that extend on the diversity of First Australian peoples and culture. Material that builds our collection and expands the continuing story of First Australians.

Culturally and linguistically diverse Australians

Australia has many diverse communities and language groups. We’re collecting items that tell the stories and experiences of these diverse communities and their lives in Australia. All languages and voices are welcomed.

Australians with Indian heritage 

Australians with Indian heritage are Australia's fastest growing migrant group, comprising over 750,000 people in 2022. Indian diaspora communities have made a significant contribution to many aspects of Australian society and culture. We’re actively collecting the experiences, documents, images and voices of Australians with Indian heritage. Find out how you can help. 

Rural and regional Australia

We want to hear the voices and stories of those who live in remote and regional Australia. What are the challenges and triumphs of living on the land? What are the histories and current experiences? What’s the relationship between the people and the land?

Australian Responses to COVID-19

The COVID-19 virus was first identified in December 2019 with the first Australian case recorded 20 January 2020. The pandemic’s effects in Australia and across the globe continue to be profound. 

The Library is recording interviews with a diverse range of Australians to ensure that stories of the COVID-19 pandemic are captured for present and future generations. Learn about the COVID-19 oral history project. 

Representative democracy

Australia has a long history of people standing up for things they believe in. We want to hear from anyone or any group that has actively tried to change society or politics. Do you have a cause that you have championed? Or is there a cause from the past that needs to be told? We are looking for the story of any social or political movement in Australia. The Library is looking for all voices, ages and diversity of opinions.  

2023 Referendum

We are calling on all Australians to help us build the next chapter of Australia’s political history by collecting ephemera from the 2023 Referendum, that will ask voters to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.

Science, technology and innovation

We’d like to expand our collection that shows Australia’s work in science and technology and innovation. We’re interested in everything ­– from world changing inventions such as the use of penicillin, the invention of the black box recorder or space program technologies to local inventions that are used in everyday lives, like the Hills Hoist or surf lifesaving reels.

The environment

The Library is looking for material that tells stories of Australia and its environment. Topics might include traditional weather patterns and natural phenomena like the Great Barrier Reef or pink lakes in Western Australia, as well as climate change and natural disasters like bushfires and flooding.

Badja Forest Road Fire oral history project

Are you a resident of the Bega Valley Shire or Eurobodalla Shire in NSW? If so, were you impacted by the Badja Forest Road Fire in the severe bushfire season of 2019 – 2020? We'd like to hear from you. The National Library of Australia, in partnership with the Cobargo Bushfire Resilience Centre, would like to record your memories and experiences for an oral history project. It will mean this significant event can be understood by current and future generations. Find out more about this project.

The National Library of Australia acknowledges Australia’s First Nations Peoples – the First Australians – as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land and gives respect to the Elders – past and present – and through them to all Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Cultural Notification

Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this website contains a range of material which may be considered culturally sensitive including the records of people who have passed away.

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