Researching family history on the Internet

Tracing your family on the Internet can still be a frustrating experience. It can be very hard to get started if you are not using your search engines effectively, as lots of people in the world probably have the same name as you! One quick tip is to use the feature that search engines such as Google have to restrict your search to web pages located in Australia.

Another good way to start is to visit the website for The National Library of Australia. The library provides an extensive range of resources that enable you to access all the relevant information you require to trace your family history. The library can also provide you with relevant tips and advice on how to find out more about your family and has a list of links to other resources you can use.

Some other national sources of information available to you are:

• The National Archives of Australia
• The Australian War Memorial

There are a wide range of community organisations specialising in family history in particular areas, including:

• Genealogical Society of Victoria
• Western Australian Genealogical Society
• The Heraldry & Genealogy Society of Canberra Inc
• Genealogical Society of Queensland
• Tasmanian Family History Association
• New South Wales State Library Family History Service
• Ballarat & District Genealogical Society