Lives at Work: Discovering NSW History Through Archives

Online Research Workshop in November

Lives at Work: Discovering NSW History Through Archives

This course is in partnership with WEA Sydney.

The NSW State Archives contain a remarkable record of everyday working life across more than two centuries. This course introduces the wide range of archival records relating to professions, trades, businesses, apprenticeships, licences, public service, immigration and employment.

Participants will discover how these records can enrich family history, local history and social history research while gaining a deeper understanding of the changing nature of work in New South Wales. Ideal for family historians, researchers and anyone interested in Australia’s social history.

Course Outline

• Unlocking occupation records in the NSW State Archives.
• Following career paths: public servants, professions, occupations and apprenticeships.
• Investigating employment, business and working life.
• Bringing working lives to life through research.

Offices at Housing Commission, 1951 (Museums of History NSW – State Archives Collection)

About the speaker

Christine Yeats is an archivist and historical researcher with 35 years’ experience, including senior roles at State Records NSW (now Museums of History NSW). She managed access to the State’s archives, outreach, and public programs until her retirement in 2012. A past President of both the Royal Australian Historical Society and the Federation of Australian Historical Societies, she is also a member of the Australian Dictionary of Biography’s Revision Sub-Committee. In 2023, she was awarded a RAHS Fellowship for her outstanding contributions to Australian history.

Event details

• Event Date & Time: Wednesday, 15 July 2026 @ 11.00 am – 1.00 pm
• Event Location: History House, 133 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000 (hybrid)
• Cost: RAHS Members $35 | Non-Members $39

CLICK HERE TO BUY A TICKET

Please note: RAHS Members should contact WEA Sydney first to confirm that their member number has been added to their student record before enrolling, so that they receive the member discount.