In February the Hon Peter Garrett AM MP introduces a Bill into Federal Parliament to accord the NFSA the status of an independent statutory authority. The National Film and Sound Archive Act 2008 is passed by both Houses of Parliament in March. The new National Film and Sound Archive, with its own legislation, governing Board and statutory independence, comes into being on 1 July.
For the first time in its history the NFSA can, subject to the Act and the requirements of government policy, make its own decisions about: the shaping of the national collection; the promotion of its activities; its engagement with the Australian people; its relationship with like institutions in Australia and internationally; and the management of both its personnel and resources.
NFSA CEO Paolo Cherchi Usai addresses staff on 1 July 2008. NFSA title: 763091
Indigenous smoking ceremony at the NFSA on 1 July 2008. NFSA title: 763091