The Brisbane Archdiocesan Archives exists to collect, preserve, protect, and manage records that document the origin, history, and growth of the archdiocese. These materials reflect the spirit and mission of the local Church, offering insight into its heritage and inspiring the ongoing work of the people of God. The Archives also serves as a vital record of the social, cultural, and built history of the Archdiocese of Brisbane.
The following information will help you navigate the resources and services that are available through the Brisbane Archdiocesan Archives.
Collection
The Archives collects, preserves and manages the records of the office of the Archbishop, parishes and other church organisations. The collection includes:
- Episcopal (Bishops & Archbishops) records
- Parish Records
- Sacramental Registers
- Catholic Newspapers and periodicals
- Reference Collection
- Photographic Collection
- Audio visual Collection
- Art Collection
- Textiles Collection
- Architectural Drawings
- Ephemeral Catholic materials
It also holds general material about some Religious Orders, Lay associations, Catholic agencies and institutions. Please note we do not hold school records or records relating to hospitals, orphanages or other health facilities or institutions.
Reference Services
The Archives provides reference services in the areas of:
• Church/parish histories
• Catholic agencies, ministries and programs
• Catholic history in the region
• Genealogical inquiries (please see Genealogy Resources)
Parish Requests
The Archives hold limited records relating to parishes as the Canon Law of the Catholic Church requires each parish to maintain its own archive. The Archives Office is supportive of parishes producing histories and other publications in relation to parish life. It will provide assistance to these projects provided there is advance notice and on completion of the Application for Access to the Archives form.
Research Requests
Access to materials for the purpose of research must be made in writing and are subject to an approval process. All requests must be made in writing together with a completed Application for Access to the Archives form.
Please note at present there is limited capacity to conduct research as the Archives are temporarily relocating while planning for a new Archive facility is in progress. Requests to conduct research are at the discretion of the Archivist and are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Requesting a Sacramental Record
There are no charges for search requests relating to persons requesting their sacramental records in order to receive other Sacraments (e.g. Marriage) or to be enrolled in a Catholic school.
Please refer to Genealogy Resources for more information regarding requests for sacramental records for the purpose of genealogical research.
Genealogy Resources
Please note at present there is limited capacity to conduct genealogical research as the Archives are temporarily relocating while planning for a new Archive facility is in progress. Requests for genealogical research is at the discretion of the Archivist and are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Other Genealogical Resources
The following resources may be of assistance when conducting genealogical research.
| State Library of Queensland | https://www.slq.qld.gov.au/collections/family-history |
| Queensland State Archives | https://www.qld.gov.au/recreation/arts/heritage/archives |
| Brisbane City Council Archives | https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/libraries-venues-and-facilities/libraries/brisbane-city-archives |
| Brisbane City Council Libraries | https://library-brisbane.ent.sirsidynix.net.au/client/en_AU/eLibCat/ |
| Moreton Bay Regional Libraries | https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/libraries/Home |
| Redland City Council Libraries | https://www.redland.qld.gov.au/Libraries |
| Logan City Council Libraries | https://loganlibraries.org |
| National Library of Australia | https://www.library.gov.au |
| Trove | https://trove.nla.gov.au |
| Ancestry.com | ancestry.com.au |
| Family Search | https://www.familysearch.org/en/australia |
Access to the Archives
Access to the Archives is strictly by appointment only. For information on how to contact the Archivist visit our Office Directory.