The Adelaide Catholic Archdiocesan Archive (ACAA), under the Record Services and Archives Office, is the official custodian of the non-current records of the Archdiocese. We are responsible for preserving the cultural and social history of the church in South Australia and hold in trust a rich collection of written and pictorial information from the early days of the Diocese to its recent history.
Available Records
- The administration of the Archdiocese since its inception
- Parishes (general information only)
- Lay Associations (general information only)
- Religious Orders (general information only)
- Microfiche and digital copies of various church registers; baptisms, marriages, deaths, and confirmations with many gaps across all registers (closure periods apply)
- Catholic newspapers, including The Southern Cross (1889 - current); The Witness (1957 - current), and L'Osservatore Romano, (1968 - current)
- Photographic collection of persons, places and events
- The Official Directory of the Catholic Church in Australia, 1841 - current (with some gaps)
Accessing the Archives
The Record Services and Archives Office has a responsibility to prioritise management of the records of the Archdiocese in accordance with recordkeeping best practice, and as a private collection in ways that directly support the work of the Archbishop.
Visits to the office are by appointment only. To enquire about available services and resources please email Record Services and Archives at archives@adelaide.catholic.org.au or alternatively telephone (08) 8210 8115.
Conditions of Use
Bona fide students and other researchers may be given access to archival materials under the following conditions:
- That they apply in writing to the Record Services and Archives Office for permission to view the documents they require, using the form “Application for Access to the Archives”, (please refer to Policies and Forms). They must state clearly the nature and purpose of their research and must abide by the decision given.
- That they abide by the rules relating to conduct in the search room, as stated in the document “Rules for the Use of the Adelaide Archdiocesan Archives,” (please refer to Policies and Forms) and co-operate with Staff at all times.
Family History Research
We welcome family history researchers and genealogists; however our policy is to direct family historians to other agencies when identical records are available elsewhere for public use (see External Links).
Family historians are not required to complete the form 'Application for Access to the Archives'.
Please email Record Services and Archives at archives@adelaide.catholic.org.au to enquire about relevant holdings.
Please note that enquiries for more recent sacramental records may require contacting the Archbishop's Office or the relevant Parish Office.
Records Relating to Schools, Children's Homes, and Orphanages
The Record Services and Archives Office does not hold records of individuals who attended Catholic schools or resided at group homes or orphanages.
Please contact the Records Service of the Integrity and Professional Standards Team for assistance.