The Minister for Communications, the Information Economy and the Arts, Senator Richard Alston, today announced a change of name for the Australian Archives to the National Archives of Australia.

Senator Alston said that the new name better reflected the true national role of the Archives, which has offices and repositories in each State and Territory capital.

"Under its new name, the National Archives will be more clearly recognised as the keeper of the nation's memory and one of the key organisations in the process of government," Senator Alston said.

The name change coincides with the move of the Archives in Canberra to a new national building at East Block, a move which further confirms the government's support of the central custodial role performed by the National Archives.

"The name change will occur with minimal cost to the taxpayer."

Senator Alston said that the gallery space in the new building will enable the National Archives to showcase many of its treasures such as original designs for the Australian flag, the Instrument of Surrender after World War II, and early drafts of the Constitution.

"With a new name and a new home, this is an exciting time for the National Archives, and also provides Canberra with an engaging new tourist attraction later this year," Senator Alston said.

"I warmly endorse the name change and wish the National Archives of Australia every success for the future."

Media Contact:

Terry O'Connor, Minister's office, 0419 636 879

Robert Beattie, National Archives, 09 6209 3979

Website http://www.richardalston.dca.gov.au