PROMOTING HISTORY (aka ADVOCACY)

In consultation with  and using the expertise of our members and Councillors, the History Council of Western Australia provides a voice for history by promoting the study, preservation and use of history in Western Australia. Acting as a peak body, the History Council responds to the history interests of the broader community, speaking and acting authoritatively on its behalf.

By creating opportunities for discussion and debate, the Council takes a stand on relevant social and political issues. The Council regularly makes submissions to governments at all levels, ministers, agencies and key stakeholders. Where appropriate, the History Council supports member organisations on issues that affect the practice and writing of history as well as issues where a better understanding of the historical context would enhance the decision making process.

The following key issues/areas are monitored as watching briefs:

• History Curriculum in the Education Sector (updated 10 December 2009)
• History at the Tertiary Level
• Archives and Archival Practice and Resourcing
• Community Programs
• Heritage
• Museums
• Indigenous Issues

The following issues have been monitored by the History Council as areas of particular community concern:

• Google Books Update
• Closure of National Archives Offices in Darwin, Adelaide and Hobart
• Indigenous and Non Indigenous Culture and the Arts, History and Heritage in Western Australia

To access background documents, submissions, letters and media releases pertaining to any of the issues listed above, please click on the relevant issue for more information. A general index list of correspondence may be found here.