New South Wales, Australia, Public Service Lists, 1858-1960

New South Wales Statistical Returns of the Colony (Blue Books) included lists of public, ecclesiastical, and other colony officials. These lists make up this database.

Who Is in the Records?

Lists of officials included in New South Wales Blue Books cover a wide range: civil officers and colony officials from members of Parliament to gaolers and meteorologists; members of the medical board; law officers, judges, sheriffs, and clerks of the courts; officials over distilleries, light houses, and abattoirs; land agents and cattle inspectors; public works employees; ecclesiastical leaders; educational leaders; and even pensioners. If your ancestor had a job in any way connected to the government of New South Wales, the church, or in education, this database will be worth exploring.

Using the Records

Records from the years 1858–1861 were extracted from the Blue Books for the microfiche making up this collection. Public Service Lists for 1862–1870 were printed as a separate publication at the time. Both sets include partial indexes at the beginning of each year.

Earlier records list only name, date of appointment, and other offices held. Later records include date of appointment, who made the appointment, and salary.

Records can be searched by name and appointment date.