The Hon Ben Wyatt, WA Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, has last month launched new online resources dedicated to Aboriginal communities to “assist them research on their families and community histories”.
The Norman Tindale Collection – named after Perth-born anthropologist, archaeologist, entomologist and ethnologist Norman Tindale – includes genealogical information and photographs from Aboriginal communities throughout Australia.
The new online index was created by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries’ Aboriginal History WA.
It contains vast amounts of genealogical information, recorded in 50 Aboriginal communities across WA between 1935 and 1966. The index features more than 14,000 names, photographs, and data cards.
“The Norman Tindale index provides an invaluable platform for Aboriginal people to research their family histories to help understand how their families and communities have been impacted by past government policies, Minister Wyatt said.
The information contained within the index will assist individuals to access their history and re-establish important links to family, culture and country.
“I encourage all Aboriginal people searching for truth to make use of this important resource.
“With the existence of several hundred captivating photographs, many of which have never been seen previously, there is no other genealogical collection in Australia quite like this,” he continued.
“Having experienced an emotional journey uncovering my own family history, I expect this resource will assist others in travelling the same path. Knowing the truth is an important step towards reconciliation and healing.”
To access the Tindale records, applicants will need to complete a family history request form by Clicking Here