Recently the State Library purchased The diggers ten commandments, a light-hearted set of rules for diggers in the Victorian goldfields. Composed by an unknown Ballarat digger, this six-page document sets down the rules of conduct for diggers and was circulated in the goldfields between 1851 and 1860.

The handwritten commandments reflect Australia’s ‘fair go for all’ philosophy. It is a fantastic addition to our large collection documenting Victoria’s colourful history and available now to view in the State Library. This document was acquired thanks to the generous support of our donors in the 2014 annual appeal.