How do I perform a basic search?
To perform a basic search, simply type in your search word(s) in the search box provided, then press Enter or click the Search button to initiate a search.
Tips for entering your search words :
- Every word matters. In a basic search all the words you put in the query will be used.
- Search is always case insensitive. i.e. Searching for ‘The Australian Taxation Office’ is the same as searching for the ‘australian taxation office’
- Punctuation is ignored. i.e. you can't search for @#$% or any other special characters.
Most queries do not require advanced operators as a basic query will often produce the results you need provided you follow a few basic guidelines shown below:
- Keep it simple. If you're looking for a particular department, just enter its name, or as much of its name as you can recall. If you're looking for a particular concept, place, or document, start with its name. Describe what you need with as few words as possible. Too many words may restrict your search results.
- Choose descriptive words only. Words that are not very descriptive, like 'document',' site,' or 'info,' are usually not needed and may limit your search results. For example, if you wish to search for birth certificate information, entering 'birth certificate info' does not add value to your query and it may not produce the desired results by including additional results with the word info which may or may not include the words birth and certificate. Limit your search words to a specific query of 'birth certificate'.
