
Annual Report 2016-17
History
Australia has had a national workplace relations tribunal for more than a century—it is one of the country's oldest institutions. Over time, the Tribunal has undergone many changes in jurisdiction, name, functions and structure. Throughout that history, the Commission and its predecessors have made many decisions that have affected the lives of working Australians and their employers. The Commission recognises the importance of capturing and preserving its history for display and research.
The Commission established the Sir Richard Kirby Archives in 2002 as a means of preserving its history. Named in honour of the longest serving President of the Commission, the archives contain a range of historical materials, including documents, photographs, and a collection of oral interviews with past Members and senior staff of the Commission. It is overseen by the National Archivist, Deputy President Hamilton, who also runs an exhibition program.