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Intro

Staff and a visitor sit at a table at the State Library discussing family history
This year's theme, Ancestors: Mundane to Magnificent, celebrates the stories behind ordinary lives and recognises that every ancestor has a story worth discovering. Exploring the past is part of everyday work for the Aboriginal History WA (AHWA) team within the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport.  

The team helps Aboriginal people identify and access family history records held in the State Records Office and other collecting institutions. AHWA Specialist Research Officer Mark Chambers OAM said that family history is often about much more than tracing a family tree. 

 “Our role is to assist people in identifying historical records that deepen their understanding of their family across generations, as well as their community, Country and culture,” Mr Chambers said. 

“Many of these records were created by government agencies, missions, reserves and children's institutions and are now preserved in public archives. 

“These records provide valuable insights into the lives, experiences and connections of earlier generations, and sometimes reveal family stories that have been lost over time. 

"For some people, those discoveries help answer long-held questions and provide a deeper understanding of who they are, where they come from and where they belong."  

Learn more about Aboriginal History WA services, records and family history resources

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Page reviewed 10 June 2025
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