Picture Trails: History and society
Art & culture
Geography & Environment
History & society
Sport & physical education
Archived picture trails
Bushrangers
Notorious, 'wanted' but dangerous to know - Morgan, 'Thunderbolt', Hall and the Kelly Gang! Walk on the wild side with the outlaws famous during the 1800s.
Depression years
The early 1930s were a psychological low point in Australia's history. As families lived through a trough of financial depression, few were unaffected.
This trail illustrates the hardships suffered, the unemployed relief-workers, evictions and food queues that characterised the times.
Federation
On 1 January 1901 the Australian colonies that had been operating independently, joined together to become one nation and a new chapter in Australia's history began.
The Federation trail depicts how it happened.
Visit the National Library of Australia's Federation Gateway for other resources.
Gold rush
Experience the highs and lows of Australia’s gold rush, see what life was like at the diggings and witness how gold has become a major mining industry for Australia.
Prime Ministers of Australia
The Prime Ministers trail shows images of those elected to lead Australia.
Sailing along
Picture Australia provides access to an extensive collection of sailing vessel images from all eras. View highlights of Australia's maritime history then try your own search.
For more information about ships try the Ships Picture Research Service or the National Maritime Museum
The Anzacs at Gallipoli
On 25 April 1915, the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps landed on the beaches at Gallipoli in Turkey during WW1.
View the Gallipoli trail which recalls images of a decisive point in Australian history, or follow the New Zealanders at War showcase at Matapihi
The Chinese-Australian Story
The gold rushes of the 19th century were the catalyst for Chinese settlement in Australia. Thus began a shared history that has done much to develop the multicultural nature of this country.
You may also like to visit the Chinese-Australian Historical Images in Australia website which celebrates the contribution of Australia's Chinese communities.
The Maori story
The history of the Maori people makes a long and fascinating story. Their colourful and deeply held cultural traditions have had an impact in Australia as well as in their homeland.
Women and war
Women have made a huge contribution to war efforts both in combat areas as nurses and by providing assistance on the homefront during conflicts throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.