Our Federation Gallery contains some of Australia's most significant documents – those that record the founding of the Commonwealth of Australia.

The seven items include the original Constitution Act passed by the British Parliament and the Royal Commission of Assent signed by Queen Victoria on 9 July 1900. They also include documents that record subsequent changes to Australia's Constitution.

The National Archives is committed to ensuring the future survival of this material as well as encouraging and facilitating Australians' access to the documents.New preservation research techniques measure the impact of light on documents. We balance the documents' future conservation needs with the public's right to access.

Catch a glimpse of the Commonwealth of Australia's original founding documents with a Gallery Host who will discuss their significance.

Events at the National Archives of Australia may be photographed and recorded. Please inform the photographer if you do not want your photograph taken.