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Records authorities

A records authority is a legal instrument that allows agencies to make decisions about keeping, destroying or transferring Australian Government records. Records authorities are used to determine how long to keep records and provide permission for the destruction of records once this time has passed. Learn more about how records authorities apply to your agency.

Types of records authorities

Find out more about agency-specific records authorities and access general records authorities (GRAs) for keeping, destroying or transferring records of business common to many agencies.

Developing a records authority

Developing a records authority is a practical and flexible process which allows your agency to focus on information and records from one or several business areas.

Disposal freezes and retention notices

Stay up to date on current disposal freezes and retention of records notices.

More information

  • List of agency-specific records authorities
  • List of General Records Authorities
  • Review your records authorities
  • Get advice

Acknowledgement of Country

The National Archives of Australia acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians of Country throughout Australia and acknowledges their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the people, their cultures and Elders past and present.

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