South Sea Islander records at Queensland State Archives

Records relating to South Sea Islander people - from the first arrivals in the early 1860s to their subsequent repatriation or settlement in Queensland - hold a significant place in the collection of the Queensland State Archives.

Included in the collection are records that document the recruitment, transportation and arrival of South Sea Islander people in Queensland, along with records about employment, education, health and deportation and repatriation. Other records relate to those who remained in Queensland after 1906. 

Queensland State Archives has developed the following resources to help with research into the lives of Australian South Sea Islander people:
• Australian South Sea Islander Records: Guide
This is a comprehensive guide to Queensland State Archives’ records relating to Australian South Sea Islander people. There are three parts to this guide: Part 1 covers the records created by the Inspector of Pacific Islanders; Part 2 covers records created by all other agencies; and Part 3 outlines the relevant legislation.
• Australian South Sea Islanders 1867-1908: Online Index
This index was compiled from a wide variety of sources including Immigration Department records, Inspectors of Pacific Islanders across Queensland, the Crown Solicitor’s Office and the Chief Secretary’s Department. Records can be viewed in the Public Search Room at Queensland State Archives.
• Mackay Hospital Admissions 1891-1908: Online Index
This index was created from Series 18305, Admission Registers hospital, 1891-1908. South Sea Islander names are also recorded.