Searching your Aboriginal family history

Discover some useful resources and general information about searching for an Aboriginal ancestor using the Registry index.

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When using Registry records to search for an Aboriginal ancestor, keep in mind that there has never been a requirement to record a person’s race or ethnicity, so this information is not always recorded.

The Registry does not provide letters of proof or confirmation of Aboriginality. For further information contact the local Aboriginal Land Council or Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation.

Some search challenges

Language and descriptions used in official historic records may be considered offensive. Please be aware of this when searching for Aboriginal family history.
Official birth, death and marriage registration started in 1856. Prior to this our records are compiled from church registers. If your ancestor was not baptised, married or buried by the church, the Registry will not have a record of the event.
Some entries in the index have ‘Aboriginal’ recorded with the name or surname. If an entry cannot be found under the name, try adding an asterisk * to the end of the surname or name e.g. Peter* may find Peter (Aboriginal).
Not all Registry entries in the index will have Aboriginal noted, even if it is on the Registry record.
Spelling of names can vary. Try searching for part of the name with an asterisk as there may be differences in name spelling on records.
The terms ‘Native’ or ‘Native Born’ often refer to Europeans born in the Colony.
Official records may not always be correct. Depending on the informant, information may not have been known or may have been withheld by the informant.
Some births, deaths and marriages may not have been registered but may be found in other records. View the useful resources section below to understand what other records may be available.