During July 2004 the Professional Standards Office was granted access and care of documents and information relating to large numbers of former residents of Catholic Residential Facilities including orphanages, cottage homes and foster care in South Australia.  Much of the material had been stored in various archival repositories and was rediscovered during the course of extensive searching initiated by Archbishop Wilson. Although the earliest material dates back to the 1870s, the records are incomplete, and do not represent all former residents of Catholic Residential Facilities in South Australia.

Access to records
Former residents (or their relatives) can apply to access their records. 

The application process includes:

• completion of the Records Service Application form
• confirmation of identity, or authority to access information

If the records are located, applicants are invited to attend the Professional Standards Office and view original material, where privacy requirements allow.  Applicants may also receive copies of all material that relates to them personally. 

Should distance or other issues preclude personal attendance, arrangements can be made to provide material by registered post.

The Professional Standards Records Service has been successful in providing access to records  to many former residents or their families. 

Applicants are encouraged to contact the Records Service Helpline on 1800 839 211  Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm.