​Family history guide

Melbourne was the first landfall for many Australian immigrants from the middle of the 19th century. And now, many of their descendants are searching for historical records and information about them.

This is a guide to finding shipping and port-related information and contacts for more help. It is not exhaustive and many other organisations may also have information.

Maritime research service

For information about passengers, ships and shipping:

• National Trust of Australia (Victoria)
  Email: polly.research@nattrust.com.au

Passenger lists for ships arriving in Victoria

• 1839-1923 – Public Record Office Victoria
• 1924-1964 – National Archives of Australia

Passenger lists for ships leaving Victoria

• 1852-1923 – Public Record Office Victoria
• 1924-1964 – National Archives of Australia

Historical images of the port of Melbourne

• Public Record Office Victoria
• State Library Victoria

Historical records of the port of Melbourne

All historical records for the port of Melbourne are held at Public Record Office Victoria, including those of the Melbourne Harbor Trust, Port of Melbourne Authority, Port of Melbourne Corporation and Victorian Channels Authority.