The migration and settlement of Chinese people in Australia was closely controlled by the Australian Government during the first half of the 20th century. Various laws, including the Immigration Restriction Act of 1901, made up what was known as the White Australia Policy.

While the policy was a great trial for Chinese Australians, it has left a wealth of documents through which we can explore their lives and communities. The showcase below is a small selection of the kinds of records about Chinese Australians that are held in the National Archives around Australia.