Australia, Western Australia, Supreme Court Probate Records Index - FamilySearch Historical Records

What is in This Collection?
These cards index the probate records from the Supreme Court of Western Australia and cover the years from 1832 to 1989.

The original index is located in the State Archives in Perth, Australia. The Australia, Western Australia Probate Records Index contains a set of index cards arranged alphabetically by surname. The indexed cards identify the deceased individual by name. Also included on the card are the date and place of death and names and description of executors or administrators. The most important key to the card is the registry number for the specific will, it is usually a number over the year of death in the right hand corner. This may also reference a book and page number. Either number is needed to access a will.

Sample Images
Probate Index Cards contain:
 * The name of the deceased person
 * Date of death
 * Place of death
 * Residence
 * Names and residence of executors or administrators (Those people who are responsible for the probate)

How Do I Search the Collection?
When Searching it is helpful to know the following:
 * Name of your ancestor
 * An approximate year of death
 * Other family members who may be listed as heirs in the probate

To search by image: ⇒Select "Browse through images" on the initial collection page ⇒Select the appropriate “Surname Range” which takes you to the images

Be sure and look for different spellings for the surname as you search the probate cards. Compare each card with the information you have about your family to determine which card is correct.

What Do I Do Next?
When you have located your ancestor’s probate record, carefully evaluate each piece of information given. Download a copy of the record, or extract the genealogical information needed. These pieces of information may give you new biographical details. Add this new information to your records of each family. The information may also lead you to other records about your ancestors.

Research Helps
The following articles will help you in your research for your family in Australia.
 * Record Finder
 * Australia Research Tips and Strategies

Tips to Keep in Mind

 * Use the date of the will to estimate the time of your ancestor’s death
 * Heirs listed on your ancestor’s probate by a different surname may be relatives
 * A will does not necessarily list all of your ancestor’s children or family members
 * An “administrator” is a person appointed by the court to administer the estate when there was no will
 * An “executor” is a person appointed by the deceased individual to execute the terms of the will
 * Not all individuals left a will. A court may have divided the property or the individual may have had nothing to leave behind

Citing This Collection
Citations help you keep track of places you have searched and sources you have found. Identifying your sources helps others find the records you used.