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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that the National Archives' website and collection contain the names, images and voices of people who have died.

Some records include terms and views that are not appropriate today. They reflect the period in which they were created and are not the views of the National Archives.

Two former staff nurses, Sister May Chang Lam and Sister Pon Yok Wong, from the General Hospital, Singapore.

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  5. Health and welfare

Health and welfare

Explore the development of Australia’s approach to health and social welfare since settlement, and the changes in attitudes and government policy that occurred during challenging times.

Sub-themes

Theme

Newspaper illustration of precautions against Spanish Influenza.

Epidemics and quarantine

Australia’s geographic isolation and strict quarantine laws help guard against diseases. Epidemics, including influenza and the bubonic plague, have taught us important lessons about managing disease.

Theme

Children receiving Sabin vaccine, Lyneham School.

Health care

Medical and public health issues are some of the major areas where the government is responsible for our wellbeing. Australia has also played an important role in medical research and innovation.

Theme

Australian Red Cross Society Door Knock appeal.

Welfare

Explore the development of social welfare in Australia and how attitudes and government policy changed during challenging times.

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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, present and emerging.

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