The University of Sydney Library manages one of Australia’s largest and oldest research collections, including rare books, archives, manuscripts, photographs and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander materials. 

It is is responsible for preserving and providing access to a collection built over more than 170 years, including millions of published works and extensive cultural, archival and special collections that reflect Australia’s history in all its complexity. 

In line with peer institutions in Australia and internationally, stewarding these collections requires balancing open access to knowledge with contemporary responsibilities relating to cultural safety, privacy, ethical collecting and responsible digital access. At Sydney, this includes around how culturally sensitive materials and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges, histories and cultural materials are described, accessed and reused. 

We do not censor our collections, we provide full access to digitised versions for researchers on request, and the physical items remain intact and available for scholarly use under appropriate conditions.  

Online redaction is applied selectively in limited case-by-case situations for publicly available digital copies where cultural, ethical or privacy considerations apply. 

This is an interim risk management step, allowing us to provide appropriate context and access while avoiding removal of the material entirely. It is not a judgement on the historical value of the material and it does not limit access to the original works for legitimate research purposes. 

In the reported case, some content in a publicly available online version of a work is redacted because it includes language and material that could cause cultural harm or distress, while researchers remain able to apply for full access.  

Our decision and the additional guidance provided aligns with our Library’s protocols around managing First Nations materials, which are consistent with national frameworks and sector-wide practice. They were developed following consultation involving Library staff, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander academic and professional staff and students, as well as research on best practice in the sector.

Published commentary did not influence our decision or timing.

We also ask that people engaging with our Library treat our staff with appropriate respect as they undertake their work to provide a professional and academic service according to the University’s policies and processes.