The NSW Government's Museums of History Bill creating two new agencies, Museums of History NSW and State Records NSW, has passed parliament.
Minister for the Arts Ben Franklin said the Bill meant the State's most important and historic collections, records and archives will be better preserved, presented and accessible to the public.
"It will see the NSW State Archives and Sydney Living Museums brought together to create a flagship body, Museums of History NSW, to serve the people of NSW and beyond," said Mr Franklin.
"The NSW Government is committed to a future where history is alive and the telling of history takes a more prominent place in our cultural landscape."
"The creation of Museums of History NSW is increasing accessibility by making history immersive, discoverable and relevant to the people of NSW."
The Bill also includes the creation of State Records NSW, a separate and dedicated agency for recordkeeping standards, regulation, advice, education and policy.
"Good recordkeeping is the foundation of good government. The creation of a dedicated agency will ensure the highest of standards is maintained for NSW Government integrity and accountability now and into the future," Mr. Franklin said.
CEO of NSW State Archives and Sydney Living Museums, Adam Lindsay said the passing of the Bill was a tremendous achievement in the ongoing preservation of, and access to our precious history for generations to come.
"History is happening as every moment passes into the next and it can be shared by all of us. With this formidable portfolio of assets combined with the expertise of our dedicated professionals, the creation of Museums of History NSW offers the chance to dig deep, discover and enjoy the wonders held within this vast and rich collection of archives, objects and built heritage," Mr Lindsay said.
The Museums of History Act 2022 and the State Records Act amendments will be effective from 31 December 2022.
