World Day for Audiovisual Heritage

World Day for Audiovisual Heritage aims to raise awareness of the importance of preserving audiovisual material, including film, television, radio, and audio recordings. These materials are invaluable records of our cultural and historical heritage; they reflect the artistic, scientific, and sociopolitical aspects of our societies. As technological advancements lead to changes in recording formats, there is a growing need for preservation efforts to ensure access to this wealth of information for future generations.

In 2005, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) adopted the resolution that declared October 27 as World Day for Audiovisual Heritage. For Australians, this observance holds significant importance, given the rich history of the country's audiovisual industry. The National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA) plays a vital role in preserving and promoting Australia's audiovisual legacy, including films, television programs, radio broadcasts, and recording productions from diverse cultural and linguistic communities.

Each year on October 27, various events are organised across Australia to mark World Day for Audiovisual Heritage. These events often include seminars, screenings, and exhibitions that showcase the nation's audiovisual treasures and highlight the importance of preserving and digitising these materials. The NFSA, along with other institutions and organisations, collaborate to create awareness about the challenges faced in audiovisual preservation and promote the potential of these archives for cultural, educational, and historical purposes. By participating in this global observance, Australians join hands with the international community in ensuring the continued preservation and accessibility of our shared audiovisual heritage.