House debates

Wednesday, 8 March 2023

Statements by Members

Trove

1:45 pm

Photo of Alicia PayneAlicia Payne (Canberra, Australian Labor Party) Share this | | Hansard source

I rise today to speak about the importance of funding Trove, Australia's wonderful online archive of history, literature and culture. It is an integral part of our national identity and heritage and it is crucial that we ensure it is properly maintained and resourced. It is also a vital way that people who can't access libraries and other institutions in person can access their collections. But it is under threat, and the National Library has warned that the future of Trove is dependent on a fresh injection of funding. We must ensure the future of Trove.

Since its launch in 2009, Trove has become an essential resource for Australia's researchers, historians, students and anyone interested in Australian history and culture, providing access to over six billion items, including books, newspapers, photographs and maps. The online archive has revolutionised the way we research, study and understand our nation's history, enabling all Australians easy access to primary source materials from across the country, and it plays a crucial role in preserving our cultural heritage.

Trove allows access to digitised versions of rare and hard to find books, preserving them for future generations, and it is a vital educational resource, providing remote and regional students with access to sources and information that would otherwise be inaccessible. Trove is crucial for the preservation, promotion and celebration of Australian history, literacy and culture and must be resourced for future generations.