Aboriginal History Research Unit (AHRU)

DIA holds family history information including a large collection of personal cards and files relating to Aboriginal people of Western Australia and their families. The cards were recorded and retained by the former Native Welfare Department. These records are critical in assisting Aboriginal people in WA to trace their family histories. Strict rules apply to ensure that only direct family members can access this highly sensitive material.

From 1920 to 1948, the former Department of Native Welfare compiled a collection of personal information about Aboriginal families. This dealt mainly with Aboriginal people from the South West of the State and in particular with those who had been sent to the Moore River Native Settlement.

Access to information

You can access the Personal History Cards of the Native Welfare Department by application for "Personal Records". Download an application form here.  For more information, please contact an AHRU Officer.

Please note that the cards are available to the Aboriginal people who are the subject of the card. In the case that the parents are no longer living, the information is made available to their children.