Public Record Office Victoria

The 2026 issue of Provenance is now online featuring research into the state archives. Four articles in this issue explore stories that reflect the varied impacts of immigration on Victoria’s communities, cities and cultures, as well as the multiple transitions that are often associated with the migrant experience. The fifth and final article solves a lingering mystery surrounding historic Maryvale murders. 

In January 2026, for the very first time, Victorian Cabinet records closed under Section 10(1) of the Public Records Act were opened. The records span a decade of Labor Government from John Cain Jr (8 April 1982–10 August 1990) through to Victoria’s first female Premier, Joan Kirner (10 August 1990–6 October 1992). 

Each year on 1 January, hundreds of archival records are released to the public as part of Public Record Office Victoria (PROV)’s annual Section 9 openings. Under Section 9 of the Public Records Act 1973 (Vic), records containing personal information – such as capital case files, criminal trials and divorce records – are temporarily closed for privacy. Explore the records opened in 2026, including the capital case of Robert Clayton, Norman Andrews, and Jean Lee – the last woman hanged in Australia. 

Rewind Forward is an exhibition developed by our 2025 Creatives in Residence, opened in the Victorian Archives Centre Gallery on Thursday 29 May 2025 featuring the work of Emile Zile, Sam Wallman, Shannon Slee, Susan Fitzgerald, and Queer-ways. A snapshot of Shannon Slee's sewn memorial of 950 women who died of backyard abortions is pictured. On display until 1 May 2026.

In this award-winning podcast series by Public Record Office Victoria we interview the people who delve into public archives and uncover interesting truths about Melbourne and Victoria's past. Hear about the amazing monuments never built, Victoria's queer history, prison escapes...and much more.