The National Maritime Museum’s maritime archaeological operations

"Under the provisions of the Australian National Maritime Museum Bill which is expected to pass through the Commonwealth Parliament in late 1990 the functions and powers of the museum are described. Among these is the power to recover, or assist in the recovery of, maritime historical material from the Australian marine environment and other areas. Over the past three years the Museum has been involved in maritime archaeological expeditions, conference and in dealing with relics from declared historic shipwrecks. Museum staff have provided advice and assistance to amateur and professional maritime archaeologists and groups throughout the country. In addition when the Museum opens to the public in late 1991 it will have material from maritime archaeological sites on loan from state delegated authorities which will be displayed in a number of the exhibition areas."