Many people are interested in learning about their family’s origins, especially direct ancestry. Many families hold fascinating stories about their past, perhaps being related to famous individuals in history. In Australia, many of us can trace our ancestry to convicts or pioneers with eventful lives.

But what if you haven’t heard of any traditional stories in your family history? You never know what you will find, as each family tree is different. Much information is lost in time if not passed down to grandchildren, but may be found in historical records.

Some of the Benefits

The topic of family history can spark a lively conversation with your relatives. For example, parents and grandparents are often eager to share what they know with the next generations. By learning about your ancestry, you may acquire knowledge to share with your own children and grandchildren. So family history can bring families together, building a bridge between generations by giving them a topic of mutual interest.

Investigating your genealogy can also be important for health reasons. Being aware of certain hereditary illnesses in the family can arm you with foreknowledge. For example, if your family has a history of skin cancer, you may want to be extra vigilant with sun safety. Discuss your family’s medical history with your doctor. Knowing that you are more susceptible to certain illnesses can help in identifying the symptoms early. This is especially true when such conditions are otherwise rare or the symptoms are less obvious.

Another advantage of knowing your ancestry is that this could allow you to apply for a passport or even citizenship in your ancestor’s country of birth (depending on the local requirements).

Genealogy research may enable you to find long-lost or unknown relatives. In some cases you may be able to make a claim on a deceased relative’s estate.

If you have indigenous ancestry, you may be eligible for government benefits.

Learning about your family history brings many rewards. What could your family’s story mean to you?