The Value of History

We believe in the value of history!

Studying our past and telling our stories is critical to our sense of belonging, to our communities and to our shared future.

History shapes our identities, engages us as citizens, creates inclusive communities, is part of our economic well-being, teaches us to think critically and creatively, inspires leaders and is the foundation of our future generations.

The History Councils of New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria and Western Australia have jointly adopted a statement about the Value of History.

Endorse the statement

Download the statement as a PDF

Download the statement as a DOCX

Read on the statement online

Download the statement as an A4 PDF with a banner design

Joint announcement

The four History Councils in Australia are independent membership associations. Each is the peak or coordinating body for history in its respective state. We work co-operatively to:

Campaign for the recognition of history

Share ideas about what makes the past relevant today

Read our joint announcement PDF about the Value of History statement at the annual meeting of the Australian Historical Association on 11 July 2019.

We call on individuals and organisations to endorse, share, and use this statement about the value of history in contemporary life. The ideas expressed in the statement can be incorporated into projects, funding applications, training materials, mission statements, websites, marketing materials, submissions and other organisational outlets.

We encourage all Australians to endorse the value of history. You can respond as an individual, or on behalf of an organisation.