The Office of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Policy was created on 22 February 1996. It was previously known as the Family Services and Aboriginal and Islander Affairs Division of the Families, Youth and Community Care Department. The aim of this office was to improve the physical, social and economic well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. In 1998, the Office was amalgamated with the Community and Personal Histories Section of various Government departments under the new name of Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Policy and Development.