The Cultural Heritage Coordination Unit of the Department of Natural Resources and Water has compiled the following guide to help those conducting research for the protection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural heritage.

The information includes:

• a brief overview of relevant sources of information
• links to web sites where available
• contact information.

If you are aware of additional information sources that can be added to this guide, please contact us on (07) 3238 3838.

Access assistance

Institutions around Australia have recognised the need to reorganise information on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural heritage and make it more accessible, and to acknowledge issues of privacy, confidentiality and cultural sensitivity.

Many institutions, such as the John Oxley Indigenous Services Unit, aim to provide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with a culturally aware environment in which to undertake research.

Others, like the Queensland Museum, are expanding their outreach programs to improve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' access to collections of information or cultural artefacts.

Many institutions also have Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander liaison officers and librarians to help with enquiries, useful sources of information and hints on the best way of using their resources.

Some institutions (especially smaller ones) are staffed by volunteers, so it is advisable to contact them before visiting to make best use of their opening hours and resources.

It is also important to note that some of the information held can be culturally sensitive, e.g. materials containing personal information, family histories or names or images of deceased Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Staff members will be able to advise you if access restrictions apply, and how to gain access.