If you’re researching your Australian family — or thinking about starting — this course offers the structure, skills, and historical framework to help you do it well.
Family history is more than collecting names and dates. To truly understand your ancestors, you need to place them in their time and place — within the social, economic, and historical context that shaped their lives. This course provides a comprehensive guide to researching families in Australia while building that essential framework.
Designed for adult learners, both beginners and experienced researchers will benefit.
Participants will develop:
- Stronger research skills and techniques — learn how to approach your research systematically, analyse evidence, and avoid common pitfalls.
- A broader understanding of Australian history — gain insight into the events and movements that influenced where families migrated, lived and worked.
- Knowledge of the types of records available — explore BDM registrations, church records, land and probate files, immigration and military records, newspapers, electoral rolls, and more.
- Confidence in where and how to access these records — discover how to navigate archives, libraries, and online repositories effectively.
The course format supports steady, meaningful progress. It begins with a full-day hybrid seminar (attend in person or online), followed by seven monthly Zoom sessions — allowing time to apply what you learn between classes — and concludes with a final full-day hybrid seminar to consolidate your knowledge.
Beginners will gain a clear roadmap and strong foundation. More experienced family historians will refine their techniques, expand their understanding of Australian sources, and strengthen their historical context.
Family history is about preserving stories and creating a legacy. With the right skills and knowledge, you can research with confidence and bring your ancestors’ lives into sharper focus.
If you’re ready to deepen your understanding of researching families in Australia, this course will guide you every step of the way.
You can find more details on our dedicated course page of our website: https://www.gsv.org.au/australian-family-history-course-research-strate… Or you can email our course manager, Michael at austresearch@gsv.org.au
Not a member? Join now to get member rates but you’ll need to phone our office to do that: Tue - Fri 10am - 4pm 03 9662 4455.