Applying the Australian Series system to the management of current records

The Australian Series system is an archival control or metadata system, used primarily to describe records in the custody of archival institutions. However, the article explains how concepts and descriptive model embodied in the system can also be usefully employed to document the content, context and management requirements of current records, including electronic records, at an aggregate level. This can assist in situations where records have been undermanaged, where the functionality of existing systems is limited, or where there are multiple localised systems. The system can be used as a basis to gather and present structured evidence of the need to improve existing practices. It can also assist the management of legacy records, once improved systems have been established.