​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.

Immigrant family arrives on a ship

Passenger lists for ships arriving in Victoria

Passenger lists for ships leaving Victoria

Historical images of the port of Melbourne

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.


Family History Guide