Frequently asked questions

How do I search ATNS? +

You can search for agreements, treaties or negotiated settlements here or by returning to the home page and using the 'Search' box.

There is an agreement which isn't on ATNS. Can I send it to you? +

We welcome agreement submissions. Please contact us and include as much information as possible.

I want to know more about an agreement. Can I have a copy of the agreement? +

If an agreement is available publicly or we have received permission to host a copy of an agreement, it will be linked on the specific agreement's page.

Can you help me contact an organisation that is listed on ATNS?+

Unfortunately, ATNS cannot provide details for specific organisations. Listed below are some organisations who may be able to assist with your enquiries:

  • The Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC) supports and regulates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporations. It also offers advice on how to incorporate, as well as training for directors and members. Additionally, ORIC provides information and documents related to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporations.
  • Prescribed Bodies Corporate (PBC) Under the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth), when a determination is made, native title holders must establish a corporation called a Prescribed Bodies Corporate (PBC), which manages and protects native title rights and interests. The PBC website provides information and resources for native title groups and corporations, as well as contact details of PBCs.
  • The National Native Title Tribunal (NNTT) is an independent body with a number of functions, including mediating some native title proceedings, determining and assisting with native title determinations and assisting in the negotiation of Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUAs).
  • AIATSIS is a national institution with a sole focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, research and policy issues, including land rights and native title. It is also a custodian of collections of works and items and supports the return of cultural heritage materials from overseas. AIATSIS provides family history resources as well as organisational training on cultural capability.

Can you help me with my school or university research project? +

We are currently unable to provide research support for individual projects. However, if you have a topic you think we should include on our website, we encourage you to contact us.

Do you provide training or workshops? +

We welcome enquiries via contact us and list any public events on our news and events page.

I have an event or publication I'd like to promote. Can you help? +

We welcome event and publication submissions and will review these several times throughout the year. Please contact us and include as much information as possible.

I'd like to volunteer or work with ATNS. Are you accepting applications? +

Thank you for your interest in ATNS. Please read 'Join us' for more information.

How do I contact the ATNS team? +

Please send any questions via contact us.

Can you help me with family searching or proof of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander identity? +

We understand that not everyone has access to records regarding their Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage, and the search can be difficult.

Unfortunately, ATNS does not provide proof of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander identity, nor can we advise on specific forms or applications. Please read our information on proof of identity.