Harvard (author date) Referencing Guide

What is referencing?
When you write an assignment at university, you are required to refer to the work of other
authors. Each time you do so, it is necessary to identify their work by making reference to it—
both in the text of your assignment and in a list at the end of your assignment. This practice of
acknowledging authors is known as referencing.
References must be provided whenever you use someone else’s opinions, theories, data or
organisation of material. You need to reference information from books, articles, videos,
computers, other print or electronic sources, and personal communications. A reference is
required if you:
• quote (use someone else’s exact words)
• copy (use figures, tables or structure)
• paraphrase (convert someone else’s ideas into your own words)
• summarise (use a brief account of someone else’s ideas).

Why should you reference?

References enhance your writing and assist your reader by:
• showing the breadth of your research
• strengthening your academic argument
• showing the reader the source of your information
• allowing the reader to consult your sources independently
• allowing the reader to verify your data.

Should you reference public domain information?

Public domain information is information that is so widely known that it is considered everybody
would be aware of its source. The general public use public domain information freely. Where
authors or sources are so widely known, specific citation may not be required.

The quick guide to referencing

Robert Harris designed this simple flowchart to assist students to cite their research properly.
(Source: Harris 2001, p. 155)
 (Source: Harris 2001, p. 158)
These flowcharts can be found in Harris, R 2001, The plagiarism handbook: strategies for
preventing, detecting and dealing with plagiarism, Pyrczak, Los Angeles.

What is plagiarism and how can you avoid it?

Plagiarism is the intentional use of someone else’s ideas, words or concepts in your assignment
work.

The best way to avoid being accused of plagiarism is to acknowledge the resources upon which
you have based your ideas.

Which referencing system should you use?

There are a number of different referencing systems used in academic writing.
• author-date systems commonly known as Harvard and APA (American Psychological
Association)
• footnoting or endnoting systems commonly used in History and Law.
It is important that you use the referencing system required by your lecturer for an assignment
and maintain consistency in using that system.
This guide explains the Harvard system of author-date referencing. The information it contains is
based on:
Commonwealth of Australia 2002, Style manual for authors, editors and printers, 6th edn, rev.
by Snooks & Co., John Wiley & Sons Australia, Brisbane. Copyright: Commonwealth of
Australia reproduced with permission.
Principles of author-date referencing
There are two parts to the author-date system of referencing.
• the author and the date are referred to in the text or main body of your writing (called
embedded or in-text referencing)
• all of the resources referred to in the body of the writing are included in the reference list at
the end of the assignment. All information is included in this list: author, date, title of
publication, publisher and where it was published.
The other features of author-date referencing include:
• a specific order in which this information should be structured
• the in-text reference which should be placed (cited) in such a way that it causes minimal
disruption to the flow of your writing—this usually means at the very end or the very
beginning of your sentences (see ways of citing below).
When you cite sources of information in the text of your assignment—regardless of whether you
quote, copy, paraphrase or summarise—you should include:
• the author’s surname (family name)
• the year of publication (latest edition)
• page numbers when directly quoting or closely paraphrasing an author’s words/material
• correct punctuation and spacing.

Ways of citing
There are two ways of citing references: author prominent and information prominent.

Author prominent
This way gives prominence to the author by using the author’s surname (family name) as part
of your sentence with the date and the page number in parentheses (round brackets).
Direct quote example
Cowie (1996, p. 91) argues that ‘socialism rejected the liberal ideals of individualism
and competition’.
Paraphrase example
Cowie (1996) suggests that unlike capitalism, socialism promotes the good of the whole
before the good of the individual.

Information prominent
The other way of citing references gives prominence to the information, with all the
required referencing details in parentheses at the end of the citation.
Direct quote example
It has been argued that ‘socialism rejected the liberal ideals of individualism and
competition’ (Cowie 1996, p. 91).
Paraphrase example
Unlike capitalism, socialism promotes the good of the whole before the good of the individual
(Cowie 1996).
 Verbs that help with author-prominent referencing

state point out describe

remark add suggest
maintain assert affirm
agree claim clarify
disagree contest contend
highlight find show
imply theorise offer
predict question dispute
justify confirm reason

Paraphrasing
Paraphrasing means to restate accurately and succinctly in your own words something you have
read. If your work does not refer to specific ideas on particular pages of a resource but to general
themes mentioned throughout the resource, page numbers need not be shown.
General theme
Studies (Tanner 1999) indicate that the economic structure of Australia today is far more
unpredictable and unstable than it was thirty years ago.
Specific idea
Tanner (1999, p. 22) claims that the introduction of the GST in the Australian economic structure
has not impacted the price of fuels.

Paraphrase or use quotations?

It is preferable that you paraphrase (put ideas in your own words) as too many quotations
(using the exact words) can lead to a poorly written assignment. A general rule in academic
circles is that no more than 10% of an assignment should be in the form of direct quotations. No
matter whether you use quotations or paraphrase another’s words, you always need to give
references—both in the text and in the reference list.

Original text from plagiarism policy

3. Plagiarism
The University views the process of circumventing or attempting to circumvent, or circumventing
assessment requirements very seriously. Consequently conduct of that sort may result in the
suspension or exclusion of the student. Plagiarism involves submitting or presenting work in a
course as if it were the student’s own work done expressly for that particular course when, in fact,
it is not. Most commonly, plagiarism exists when:
3.1 the work submitted or presented was done, in whole or in part, by an individual other than the
one submitting or presenting the work (this includes having another impersonate the student
or otherwise substituting the work of another for one’s own in an examination or test);
3.2 parts of the work are taken from another source without reference to the original author;
3.3 the whole work, such as an essay, is copied from another source; and
3.4 a student submits or presents work in one course which has also been submitted in another
course (although it may be completely original with that student) without the knowledge, or
prior agreement of the instructor involved.
Source: Central Queensland University (CQU) 2002, Undergraduate handbook, Author,
Rockhampton, p. 50

Unacceptable: Word-for-word copying

Central Queensland University (CQU) views the process of attempting to circumvent assessment
requirements very seriously. Indeed conduct of that sort may result in the suspension or exclusion
of a student. Plagiarism is when a student submits or presents work in a course as if it were their
own work, that they have done for that course when, in fact, it is not.
Usually, plagiarism exists when: an individual other than the one undertaking the course,
produces the work submitted or presented for that course; some parts of the work (assignment/s)
submitted are taken from other sources but these sources are not referenced; the whole work,
such as an essay or research report, is copied from another source; and a student submits or
presents work in one course which was also submitted in another course without the prior
agreement of the instructor involved. This can even be the case if the work was completely
original with that student.

Why is this an unacceptable use of the original text?

The words in italics are taken directly from the original source. In addition, the structure of the
discussion is a direct reflection of the original source. Even if this material had been referenced
with a citation this would still be unacceptable. This is because the content has been so closely
presented as to not truly reflect original use of the material. That is, the wording is virtually
exactly from the CQU Handbook and the flow of ideas is also from the CQU Handbook.
Although this version could have used quotation marks and citation details to adequately
reference the content, it would have been so cluttered that it would read as poor quality work. If
the concept or wording is so important to retain, then a direct quote is a better way to present the
work. However, keep in mind that direct quoting should be used conservatively in any piece of
work that you present.
The overuse of quoting can distract from the flow of your discussion and also fail to demonstrate
your understanding of the original material.

Unacceptable: Poor cut-and-paste practice

Plagiarism most commonly exists in four ways. The first is when the work submitted or presented
was done by someone other than the one submitting the work. Secondly, if the whole work, such
as an essay, is copied from some other source. A third type of plagiarism is when parts of the
work are taken from another source and no reference is made to the original author. Finally, if a
student submits or presents work in one course which has also been submitted in another course
and has not sought approval from the course coordinator to do so, this is also plagiarism. It can be
seen, therefore, that plagiarism involves submitting or presenting work in a course as if it were
the student’s own work done expressly for that particular course when, in fact, it is not (Central
Queensland University (CQU) 2002, p. 50).

Why is this an unacceptable use of the original text?

This is still an unacceptable paraphrasing of the original, even though a citation has been
provided. This is because sections of the original source have simply been reordered and the
original wording is still present (those words in italics). This version of the original is simply
reflecting the student’s ability to cut-and-paste words from another source, and still does not
demonstrate their own comprehension of the material.
Although this version could have used quotation marks and a citation to adequately reference the
content, it would have been so cluttered that meaning would have been lost.
If it is important to retain the original wording, then use of a direct quote would be a better way to
present the work. The use of the citation at the end of the paragraph is still inadequate for
academic writing.

Acceptable: Paraphrasing and acknowledging source

The Central Queensland University (CQU) takes plagiarism ‘very seriously’ (CQU 2002, p. 50).
Indeed, in the Undergraduate Handbook (CQU 2002, p. 50), the issue of plagiarism is discussed
and four examples of types of plagiarism are presented. These range from copying an entire piece
of work without acknowledging that copying has occurred, through to having someone else do
the work and then claim it as one’s own. Both of these are unacceptable. From the discussion in
the Handbook, it appears that it is also unacceptable if even only part of the work is copied and
not acknowledged. The fourth example given in the Handbook suggests that students can even
‘plagiarise’ their own work. This happens when a student has written an assignment for one
course and then attempts to use the same assignment in another course (or courses). It is therefore
important to acknowledge where information comes from and how it is being used in an
assignment, or else the student may run the risk of committing plagiarism.

Why is this an acceptable use of the original text?

The above example has made use of the ideas and concepts of the original text and demonstrated
comprehension. Only a small amount of direct quoting was used and this was clearly indicated
with the use of quotation marks and citation detail. In addition, the entire paragraph clearly
establishes its relationship to the original text while not using the words or exact structure of the
original. This type of paraphrasing demonstrates a student’s ability to analyse and apply
information to their specific question.

Using direct quotations

Quotations should be used sparingly, selected carefully, used in context, integrated into your text
and reproduced exactly (including the words, spelling, punctuation, capitalisation and
paragraphing of the original writer). The word [sic] (meaning so or thus) can be inserted in a
quotation when the original text is incorrect with regard to grammar, spelling or gender. For
example:
• According to Bloggs (2006, p. 21), the alarming growth in obesity levels in Australia can be
attributed to ‘cendentary [sic] lifestyles, time saving household devices and the rapid growth
of the fast food industry’.
• Smith (2006, p. 21) raises a contentious issue in the discipline debate with the belief that
‘when a child is at school, he [sic] must comply with the school rules unquestionably’.
• According to Jones (2004, p. 6), the Australian government has not done enough to eradicate
the feral cat and states that ‘mandatory desexing of household cats ten years ago would of
[sic] reduced feral cat numbers by 70% in 2003’.
A quotation is used if:
• misinterpretation would result from a change to the words
• a major argument needs to be recorded as evidence
• it is important to comment on, refute or analyse the ideas expressed
• it is a particularly elegant or forceful phrase.
Short quotations
Short quotations (fewer than 30 words) should:
• be incorporated into your sentence without disrupting the flow of your paragraph
• have single quotation marks
• have the full stop after the citation
• keep the same font size.
Incorporating a quote as part of your sentence—information prominent
The church is not the only setting where the soul may be nurtured, as ‘[t]he soul also finds
sustenance in more domestic settings, like the family home where customs and values have
created a spirit handed down over generations’ (Jones 1998, p. 89).
Incorporating a quote as part of your sentence—author prominent
The church is not the only setting where the soul may be nurtured. As Jones (1998, p. 89)
suggests, ‘[t]he soul also finds sustenance in more domestic settings, like the family home where
customs and values have created a spirit handed down over generations’.
The square brackets around the ‘t’—[t]—are used to indicate that in the original quotation the
word ‘the’ began with a capital T.
Long quotations
Long quotations (more than 30 words) should:
• be introduced in your own words
• begin on a new line
• be fully indented by default (i.e. 1.27 cm) from the left margin
• be in single line spacing
• use a smaller font for the quotation, that is, change from size 12 to size 10.

Separate the quotation from the lead-in statement with one blank line. The lead-in statement ends
with a colon (:). Separate the quotation from the text that follows it with one blank line. This is
illustrated below.
Example
Friere (1998, p. 3) summarises the effects of reducing literacy to a set of tools or skills when he
states that:
[m]erely teaching men [sic] to read and write does not work miracles: If there are not enough jobs
for men [sic] able to work, teaching more men [sic] to read and write will not create them.

When literacy is considered as a social practice, the relationships that exist between language use
and the production and maintenance of cultural and ideological hegemony are uncovered.
Quotation marks
Quotation marks are not used for longer quotations. When using an information prominent long
quotation, the full stop will be included after the last sentence of the quotation before the citation
as shown below.
The church is not the only setting where the soul may be nurtured as:
[t]he soul also finds sustenance in more domestic settings, like the family home, where customs
and values have created a spirit handed down over generations. According to Thomas Moore, the
soul finds sacredness in the ordinary, and may benefit most when its spiritual life is performed in
the context of mundane daily life. (Jones 1998, p. 89)
Words omitted from quotations
To omit words from quotations, use an ellipsis (…). The quotation must still keep the same sense.
Barton (1994, p. 7) describes literacy as a ‘set of practices which people use in literacy events
… and that literacy practices are situated in social relations’.
If the quotation does not begin at the start of a sentence, an ellipsis should be used to convey this
to the reader. For example:
Students may adopt a more dominant understanding of literacy because of the emphasis they
place on literacy as a means of achieving ‘… equality of opportunity and the possibilities of
liberty and democracy’ (Rockhill 1994, p. 4).
Double quotations
For a double quotation—that is, a quotation within a quotation—use double quotation marks
inside single quotation marks:
‘The first words of Melville’s Moby Dick are “Call me Ishmael” and these words are full of
significance’ was the first statement in Smith’s memorable speech (Johns 1995, p. 43).
The square brackets in quotations
Sometimes in quotations it is necessary to insert a word that explains the meaning of another
word in that quotation. Place the explanation in square brackets.
‘The curriculum of the national schools in the 1870s included reading, writing, arithmetic, drill
[physical exercises] and music’ (Cowie et al. 1996, p. 21).

Page numbers
Page numbers should be used when you directly quote material (word for word) from the
original publication. This includes tables or figures. Page numbers should also be provided for
indirect quotes and paraphrasing where the summarised material appears in specific pages,
chapters or sections.
The following examples illustrate the use of page numbers
One page referred to Wells 1992, p. 4
Pages that are not in sequence Smith 1996, pp. 1, 4 & 6
Pages that are in sequence Jones & Mackay 1998, pp. 25–26
Pages from a web site Kelly & McWhirter 1997, p. 1 of 2

Acronyms and initialisms

• Acronyms are initial letters pronounced as a word. Examples are TAFE, QANTAS, and
so on. These must appear both in-text and in the reference list.
• If a work contains numerous references to a particular resource with a long title, for
example, Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the initialism may be
used, RSPCA. Other examples are NSW, CQU and USA.
The first citation in-text must include both the full title and the acronym or initialism,
and thereafter the acronym and initialism will suffice. Write these without full stops.
 Example
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has a policy on
removing injured animals. The RSPCA is permitted to enter a property at any time following a
report of complaint (RSPCA 1999).
In the reference list, both the long title and the acronym or initialism must be included,
for example:
Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) 1999, Policy statement
on removal of animals at risk, Author, Brisbane.

Latin Term Meaning

et alia or et al. These terms mean and others and is used for four or more authors
to shorten the in-text citation. The entry in the reference list must
show all the authors. The term et al. is not italicised.
[sic] The term means ‘thus’ or ‘this is how it was written’. This is used
when there is a spelling or grammatical error or when sexist
language is used in the original source quoted. This term [sic]
appears immediately after the original error. It is not italicised and
appears in square brackets.
c. This term denotes circa and means approximately. This is used
when the approximate date is all that is known. It is not italicised
and ends with a full stop.

Difference between a reference list and

a bibliography
The reference list only identifies sources referred to (cited) in the text of your assignment. You
may also be required to provide a bibliography. A bibliography is presented in the same format
as a reference list but it includes all material consulted in the preparation of your assignment. In
other words, a bibliography presents the same items as a reference list but it also includes
all other sources which you read or consulted but did not cite.

Features of the reference list

Elements for referencing a book
For a book, the following elements should be presented in this order:
• surname and initials of author(s)
• year of publication
• title of book (in italics) in minimal capitalisation
• the edition, for example, 4th edn, if not the original publication
• publisher
• place of publication.
Book

Authors’
surnames and Title of book in
Year of minimal Place (city) of
Publisher
publication capitalisation publication

Shearman, D & Sauer-Thompson, G 1997, Green or gone, Wakefield Press, Kent Town.

Ampersand Italics for Commas between elements Full stop at

book title except author(s) and date the end

Elements for referencing a journal

article
For a journal article, the following elements
should be presented in this order:
• surname and initials of author(s)
• year of publication
• title of article in single quotation marks
• title of journal or periodical in italics and
maximal capitalisation
• volume number where applicable
• issue number or other identifier where
applicable, for example, Winter
• page number(s).
 Journal article

Author’s surname Year of publication Title of article in Italics and maximal

and initials minimal capitalisation capitalisation for
and in single quotation journal title
marks

Stove, RJ 1999, ‘Xenophobia: the great local content myth’, Institute of Public Affairs Review,
vol. 51, no. 1, pp. 14–16.

Volume and issue number in lower case Page numbers Full stop at the end

Arranging the reference list

1. The reference list is arranged in alphabetical order according to the author’s family name.
(Do not use numbers, letters or bullet points to begin each entry.)
2. Any reference that starts with a number (e.g. 7:30 Report) precedes the alphabetical listing
and is listed numerically.
3. Where there is more than one author of a publication, maintain the order of their names as
they appear on the title page of the publication, even if they are not in alphabetical order on
the title page.
4. If a reference has no author, list it alphabetically according to the sponsoring body, for
example, CSIRO or Education Queensland.
5. If there is no author or sponsoring body, list alphabetically according to the title. The whole
title of the resource must appear, but when listing alphabetically, ignore words such as, ‘The’,
‘A’, ‘An’ at the beginning of the reference’s title. For example, ‘The Australian child’ should
be alphabetised according to the ‘A’ in ‘Australian’.
6. If there are two or more references by the same author, then list them in order of publication
date with the oldest work first.
7. If references by the same author have been published in the same year, then list them
alphabetically according to the title and add the letter ‘a’ after the first date, and ‘b’ after the
second date, and so on, (e.g. 1993a, 1993b, 1993c).

Formatting the reference list

The title should be References and it should be:
• bold
• left aligned
• in the same font size as the document, 12 pt.
Note: headings are neither underlined nor punctuated.
 The references contained in the list should:
•be in single line spacing
•have a blank single line space between each reference (Hint: use paragraph spacing of 12 pt)
•be left aligned
•be arranged alphabetically
•be the final page of your assignment. (Appendices are placed after the reference list.)
A sample reference list illustrating this formatting has been provided at the end of this
guide

Minimal or maximal capitalisation?

Some lecturers/faculties require a specific form of capitalisation in the reference list. Check to see
if there is a specific requirement and follow it. If there is no requirement, the Harvard author-date
system endorses minimal capitalisation.
Minimal capitalisation Only the first word in the titles of books, chapters and
journal articles is capitalised.
Authors’ names and initials, journal titles and publishing
firm names are always capitalised.
If the title of the article, book or chapter contains a colon,
only capitalise if the first word after the colon is a proper
name. For example:
Jones, B 1999, The history of rock: John Lennon, Zen
Publishing, London.
For journal titles use maximal capitalisation.
Maximal capitalisation For titles of periodicals (journals, magazines and
newspapers), capitalise the first word and also any other
word which is not ‘the’, ‘a’, ‘an’, a preposition (such as
‘for’, ‘on’, ‘under’, ‘about’) or a conjunction (such as ‘and’,
‘but’, ‘or’).

The following examples highlight the differences between minimal and maximal capitalisation.
Minimal capitalisation
‘Green light for operation glass ceiling’ 1999, Queensland women, viewed 22 May 2000,
http://www.qldwoman.qld.gov.au/qwo/9712/ceiling.html
Kaye, M 1994, Communication management, Prentice-Hall, Sydney.
Maximal capitalisation
Anderson, A & Ellis, A 2001, ‘Using Desktop Video to Enhance Music Instruction’, Australian
Journal of Educational Technology, vol. 17, no. 3, pp. 279–294.
Crystal, D 1996, Discover Grammar, Pearson Education, Harlow.
Harvard in-text and reference list models
The following is a set of guidelines for modelling referencing techniques for paraphrasing and direct quotations in the body paragraphs of your assignments (in-
text referencing), and in the reference list at the end of your assignment.
Remember
If no example can be located for the resource you intend to use, be guided by the principles of author-date referencing; always include details that you consider
would be necessary to locate that resource and place them in the order in which they appear in the Harvard system:
• author and date
• title
• publisher
• city where published.
If it is an electronic resource, include:
• author and date
• title
• date viewed
• URL address or name of database.

Quick guide to referencing models

Hard copy books
Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

One author A recent study (Elder 1995) found that rock samples … Elder, B 1995, The magic of Australia, Beaut
or Books, Sydney.
Elder (1995, p. 14) claims that ‘…’. Note: When an author has two or more initials,
the entry would look like this:
Schwartz, HJ 1985, Interactive writing: composing
with a word processor, Holt, Reinhardt and
Winston, Austin.
Two authors A recent study (Yeric & Todd 1989) predicted that … Yeric, J & Todd, J 1989, Public opinion: the visible
or politics, Peacock Publishers, Chicago.
Yeric and Todd (1989, p. 17) suggest that ‘…’.
Note: Use an ampersand (&) within the parenthesis, but
use ‘and’ for author prominent referencing.
Three authors A recent study highlighted the fact that … (Yeric, Todd & Yeric, J, Todd, J & Muller, P 1999, Political
Muller 1999). perspectives, Peacock Publishers, Chicago.
or
Yeric, Todd and Muller (1999, p. 28) stated that ‘…’.
Note: Use an ampersand (&) within the parenthesis, but
use ‘and’ in author prominent referencing.
 Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

Four or more authors A comprehensive study conducted in 1998 indicated that Jones, P, Smith, A, Hudson, T, Etherton, J,
business in Australia is growing exponentially (Jones et al. Connelly, W & Gardener, J 1999, Business
1999). management for the new era, Wyland Publishing,
or Adelaide.
Jones et al. (1999, p. 34) suggested in their comprehensive
study that ‘…’.
Note: Use et al. in all in-text entries. Include all
Note: If there is another reference starting with Jones, for of the authors in the reference list.
example, Jones, Larsen, Green and Matthews, the
names of all the authors should be given in both
cases to avoid confusion.
University research (Brown 1982, 1988) has indicated that … Brown, P 1982, Corals in the Capricorn group,
or Central Queensland University, Rockhampton.
Recent reports (Napier 1993a, 1993b) indicate that …

Brown, P 1988, The effects of anchors on corals,

Note: When using two studies by the same author in Central Queensland University, Rockhampton.
different years, paraphrasing is essential. Place in
chronological order—oldest first.
Multiple works—same Napier, A 1993a, Fatal storm, Allen & Unwin,
author Sydney.
Ideas by Napier (1993b) were implemented … .

Napier, A 1993b, Survival at sea, Allen & Unwin,

Note: You may use direct quotes when using the sources Sydney.
separately.
Add a, b, c, etc. to differentiate between works in the
same year by using the alphabetical order of the
title.
 Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

Works by different A recent report (Smith 1998) shows that … Smith, J 1998, The world’s polluted oceans, Pacific
authors—same family or Publishers, Sydney.
name It was recently found that ‘…’ (Smith 1999, pp. 47–48).

Smith, R 1999, Evolution and religion, Firth’s

Note: The year of publication will differentiate between Publishers, Adelaide.
the two authors.
Works by different A. Carter (1999) proposed that class size seriously limited Carter, A 1999, Issues in Australian education,
authors—same family creativity in the lower school. Further investigation proved Cherokee Publications, Brisbane.
name—same year there were notable weaknesses in this claim (Carter, T 1999).

Carter, T 1999, Creativity in the classroom,

Note: As a general rule, it is advisable to paraphrase in Watkins & O’Hara Publishers, Darwin.
this instance.
Second or later edition Group dynamics has been identified as … (Johnston 1993). Johnston, K 1993, Surviving the first year
with an author or experience, 2nd edn, Macmillan, Melbourne.
A recent theory (Johnston 1993, p. 5) on group dynamics states
that ‘…’.
 Bradford (1992), Curtis (1983), and Graham (1997) all agree … Bradford, C 1992, Genre in perspective: a whole
or language approach, Bookshelf, Gosford.
Several sources are cited
at once Recent studies (Bradford 1992; Curtis 1983; Graham 1997) Curtis, A 1983, Practical math for business,
agree that … Houghton Mifflin, Boston.
Graham, A 1997, Managing more postgraduate
Note: Do not overdo this!
Note: Paraphrasing is essential if you are going to cite the research students, Oxford Centre for Staff
essence of what the authors all agree upon. Development, Oxford.
Alphabetise according to the name of the first Note: Each author will appear as a separate
author in each source. Separate entries by using entry in the reference list.
semicolons.
Author(s) sponsored by Recent theories (Centre for Continuing Studies 1987) expose Centre for Continuing Studies 1987, Methods of
institution, corporation or the link … learning, Harper Collins, Sydney.
other organisation or
It has been suggested that ‘… ’ (Centre for Continuing Studies
1987, p. 23).
No author’s name appears A recent study (Australian Defence Force 1996) suggests … Sponsoring body example
(but there is a sponsoring or Australian Defence Force 1996, The boat people
body or title) A recent study (Family policies 1996) shows that … issue, Australian Government Publishing Service,
Canberra.
Note: Cite the sponsoring organisation, the newspaper or Title example
the title. Family policies 1996, Australian Government
Publishing Service, Canberra.
No author and 2nd or later Designing a house is … (Practical design 1992) Practical design 1992, 2nd edn, South Australian
edition or Design Press, Adelaide.
When designing a house, it is important that ‘…’ (Practical
design 1992, p. 90).
Edited work—role of Current essays edited by Danaher (1998) suggest … Danaher, P (ed.) 1998, Beyond the Ferris wheel,
editor is significant or CQU Press, Rockhampton.
Current essays (ed. Danaher 1998) suggest …
or
Danaher (ed. 1998, p. 87) indicates that ‘…’.
There is a connection between … (Byrne 1995). Byrne, J 1995, ‘Disabilities in tertiary education’, in
Chapter in edited work or L Rowan & J McNamee (eds), Voices of a margin,
According to Byrne (1995, p. 84), ‘…’. CQU Press, Rockhampton.
It would appear that armed conflict in Asia did not cause … Dawson, P & Browning, MC (eds) 1986, The world
One volume of (eds Dawson & Browning 1986). at war, vol. 3, The Asian conflict, Penguin,
multivolume work or Harmondsworth.
Dawson and Browning (eds 1986, p. 32) stated that ‘…’.
One issue in a series ‘The kings of Scotland were …’ (Grant 1982, p. 34). Grant, E 1982, World bibliographic series:
or Scotland, vol. 34, Clio Press, Oxford.
Many of the Scottish kings were landed gentry before … (Grant
1982).
‘The birthrate is declining and the population is aging’ (ed. Healey, J (ed.) 2005, Issues in society: population,
Healey 2005, p. 12) vol. 224, Spinney Press, Balmain.

No date can be established Bridging courses are studied by students who have not Lansdown, M n.d., Bridging courses, Central
previously … (Lansdown n.d.). Queensland University, Rockhampton.
or
Lansdown (n.d., p. 13) found that ‘…’
The date can be In a draft policy release, the Queensland Education Department Queensland Education Department c. 1995, Draft
established but only (c. 1995) suggests … policy on school discipline, Author, Gladstone.
approximately or
‘Disciplining a child should not invoke …’ (Queensland
Education Department c.1995, p. xxii).
Referring to an author Simpson’s observations in 1975 (cited in Cole 1992) led to … . Cole, P 1992, Teaching and learning, Cap Press,
(primary source) read or Yeppoon.
about in another Learning is a process of association and development …
publication (secondary (Simpson 1975, cited in Cole 1992).
source) or
Cole (1992, p. 9), in reporting Simpson’s study, highlights that Note: Cole is the author who will appear in the
in 1975, … reference list. Try to locate the primary
source if possible.
Referring to two primary Findings from studies (Heath 1989; Johnson 1972, cited in Morris, M 1998, Critical reflection on distance
sources within a secondary Morris 1998) indicate that … education, Goprint, Brisbane.
source Note: Morris is the author who will appear in the
reference list.
Author is also the Learning with the whole brain is said to … (Central Central Queensland University (CQU) 2004,
publisher Queensland University (CQU) 2004). Immigrants into a new time, Author, Rockhampton.
or
According to Central Queensland University (CQU) (2004,
p. 32), ‘whole brain learning is …’.

Electronic books
Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

E-book from CQU library Macroeconomics has been defined as … (Barro 1997). Barro, RJ 1997, Macroeconomics, 5th edn, viewed
e-book resources or 17 February 2006,
According to Barro (1997, p. 3), macroeconomics has been http://purl.library.cqu.edu.au/EBOOKS/339-0289-
defined as ‘…’ . 29960
Hard copy journal articles
Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

One or more authors Growing concern regarding … (Peterson & Schmidt 1999). Peterson, J & Schmidt, A 1999, ‘Widening the
or horizons for secondary schools’, Journal of
Peterson and Schmidt (1999, p. 90) maintain that ‘… ’. Secondary Education, vol. 3, no. 8, pp. 89–106.
No author The competitiveness of solar power has been … (‘Building ‘Building theories on sand’ 1999, Science, vol. 285,
theories on sand’ 1999). p. 521.
or
‘Solar power may be a competitive … ’ (‘Building theories on
sand’ 1999, p. 521).
No volume or issue Sprague and Shameen (1999) indicate that alternatives to Sprague, J & Shameen, A 1999, ‘Boosting growth,
number continual economic growth … . courting disasters?’, Asiaweek, 31 July, pp. 50–51.
or
It has been suggested that ‘[g]rowth at all cost is no longer a
viable option’ (Sprague & Shameen 1999, p. 50).
Inequality amongst social groups is caused predominantly by Greenland, H 1995, ‘On the road to prejudice’,
prejudice (Greenland 1995). Australian Magazine, pp. 22–27, in Central
Article reproduced in a
or Queensland University (CQU) 1999, LAWS53287:
university readings book
Greenland (1995, p. 27) argues that ‘…’ Working with communities: resource materials,
Author, Rockhampton.
Magazine Social welfare workers Australia wide have indicated a need to McVeigh, T 2001, ‘Death wish’, Australian
address the issues surrounding the rising suicide rate (McVeigh Magazine, 12–13 May, p. 20.
2001).
Note : Always evaluate information found in
or
magazines for ‘scholarliness’—including
According to McVeigh (2001, p. 20) the increase in the rate of
bias, validity, trustworthiness of the
youth suicide is ‘of great concern to those employed in the
authors etc. Magazines are not generally
social welfare sector’.
considered scholarly pieces of work for
research.
Online or electronic journals
Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

Journal article from a Recommendations about the optimal size of a small business Mulgan, R 2000, ‘Perspectives on “the public
database included … (Mulgan 2000). interest”’, Canberra Bulletin of Public
or Administration, no. 95, March, pp. 5–12, (online
Mulgan (2000, p. 10) recommends that ‘…’. ProQuest).
Journal article from a ‘Plagiarism is one of the biggest problems in academia at Kennedy, I 2004, ‘An assessment strategy to help
website present’ (Kennedy 2004, p. 2). forestall plagiarism problems’, Studies in Learning ,
or Evaluation, Innovation and Development, vol. 1,
Kennedy (2004) suggests that plagiarism in universities is very no. 1, viewed 7 October 2005,
common. http://www.sleid.cqu.edu.au/viewissue.php?id=5
Journal article from CQU Isolation is a key factor in … (Kendall 1998). Kendall, CN 1998, ‘Teen suicide, sexuality and
Course Resources Online or silence’, Alternative Law Journal, vol. 23, no. 5,
Kendall (1998, p. 217) indicates that ‘isolation thus becomes Central Queensland University Course Resources
intrinsic …’. Online (LAWS11045).

Hardcopy—newspaper articles
Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

Newspaper article with an … has become a major source of public concern in recent Condren, P 1999, ‘Swiss prepare charges’, Weekend
author weeks (Condren 1999). Australian, 30–31 July, p. 1.
or
Condren (1999, p. 1) reported that ‘…’.
 Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

Newspaper article without In the Advertiser (23 October 2001, p. 10) … Advertiser 2001, ‘Federal election: new Chip in
an author or politics’, 23 October, p. 10.
Reform to tax laws was mentioned as ‘…’ (Advertiser 23
October 2001, p. 10).
Note: In this case the name of the newspaper is
substituted for the name of the sponsoring
Note: At undergraduate study level, you are strongly body.
encouraged not to use newspaper articles without an
author. You should seek to locate a more acceptable
scholarly representation of the information you wish
to use.

Electronic copy—newspaper articles

Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

Newspaper article with an The banking industry’s vital networks have … (Davies 1996). Davies, P 1996, ‘Key mistake wreaks havoc’,
author (online newspaper) or Australian, 18 June, p. 1, viewed 12 August 1997,
The banking industry is said to have ‘…’ (Davies 1996, p. 1). http://www.australian.aust.com/hied/columns/dav18jn
.htm
Businesses in Australia have improved their … (Gottliebsen Gottliebsen, R 2004, ‘1964–2004 and beyond’,
Newspaper article with an
2004). Australian, 28 July, p. 3, (online Factiva).
author (electronic
or
database)
Gottleibsen (2004, p. 3) stated that ‘…’.
Newspaper article with no In the Advertiser (30 September 2005, p. 21) … Advertiser 2005, ‘23m won but no prize claimed’, 30
author (online newspaper) September, p. 21, viewed 30 September 2005,
http://www.theadvertiser.news.com.au/sectionindex1/
Note: Always check the validity of a site that has no author 0,5934,national%20news%5ENATIONAL%5ETEXT
or sponsor. The use of such sites is discouraged. %5Etheadvertiser,00.html
 Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

Newspaper article with no In the Advertiser (23 October 2001, p. 10) … Advertiser 2001, ‘Federal election: new Chip in
author (electronic politics’, 23 October, p. 10, (online Factiva).
database)
Note: Always check the validity of a site that has no author
or sponsor. The use of such sites is discouraged. Note:In this case the name of the newspaper is
substituted for the name of the sponsoring
body.

Other documents on the World Wide Web (WWW)

Indicate page numbers by using, for example, p. 3 of 4 in in-text referencing. To see the page numbers, click on File then Print Preview while in Internet
Explorer. When referencing documents from the WWW, always apply this principle: Author and date, name of document, viewed date, URL.
 Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

Document on the WWW According to Greenpeace (n.d.), genetically modified foods are Greenpeace n.d., The future is GE free, viewed 28
(author/sponsor given but … September 2005,
not dated) or http://www.greenpeace.org.au/ge/farming/canola.ht
Greenpeace (n.d., p. 1 of 2 ) recommends that ‘fewer ml
genetically …’. Note: The title of a webpage is treated like the
title of a book. It is written in italics in the
reference list.
Document on the World As stated in ‘Harvard style’ (2003), … ‘Harvard style’ 2003, Citing or referencing
Wide Web (no electronic sources of information, viewed 3 June
author/sponsor) 2003,
Note: Always check the validity of a site that has no author http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/learningconnectio
or sponsor. The use of such sites is highly n/students/Lguides/harvard-referencing.pdf
discouraged.
Note: Sometimes there may be an editor’s name
given on the page—reference this like you
would an edited work.
Conference proceedings The status of refugees … (Callaghan & Martin 2004). Callaghan, S & Martin, B 2004, ‘Igniting concern
from a website or about refugee injustice’, paper presented at the
Callaghan and Martin (2004, p. 4 of 10) state that refugee Education and Social Action Conference, 6-8
‘injustice …’. December 2004, viewed 5 May 2005,
http://www.uow.edu.au/arts/sts/bmartin/pubs/04esa.
html
Radio transcript from a Smith (1998) indicates that lavender has healing properties. Smith, H 1998, ‘Medicine in Chaucer’s time’,
website or Ockham’s Razor, ABC Radio National Transcripts,
Smith (1998, p. 2 of 3) highlights lavender as having ‘…’. viewed 1 September 1998,
http://www.abc.net.au/rn/science/ockham/or110896
.htm
Government sponsored web sites
Note:
• Many Federal Government websites now indicate that the copyright belongs to Commonwealth of Australia regardless of the office or department to which
the website refers.
• Many Queensland Government websites now indicate their copyright as being The State of Queensland.
• Always check the website for copyright details on Government sites.

Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

Australian Bureau of The number of children living with only one of their natural Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 1998, 4442.0
Statistics online parents doubled between 1988 and 1998 (Australian Bureau of One in four children do not live with both natural
Statistics (ABS) 1998). parents, viewed 25 July 2002,
or http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs%40.nsf/e5cb0b
Note: Use ABS in ‘Out of Australia’s 4.6 million children aged under eighteen, 45f4547cc4ca25697500217f47/28f203d3e10ef834c
subsequent entries …’ (Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 1998, p. 1 of 2). a2568a90013628c!OpenDocument
Government media releases According to the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research
Research Organisation (CSIRO) (1997–2004), sheep weighing Organisation (CSIRO) 1997–2004, Revolutionary
has always been an … sheep weigher on trial, media release Ref PRO
Note: Use CSIRO in or 4_168, 15 Sept 2004, viewed 16 September 2004,
subsequent entries According to the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial http://www.csiro.au/index.asp?type=mediaRelease
Research Organisation (CSIRO) (1997–2004, p. 5 of 12), ‘the &id=sheepweigher&style=mediaRelease
benefits of the new sheep weigher technology …’.
Government report The success of new teaching techniques in engineering Engineering Education Steering Committee 1996,
laboratories has been documented (Engineering Education Educating engineers for a changing Australia: draft
Steering Committee 1996). report, viewed 28 August 1996,
or http://www.uow.edu.au/pwrsysed/project/review.htm
‘Engineering laboratories now employ …’ (Engineering
Education Steering Committee 1996, p. 10 of 120).
Hard copy government or legal documents
Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

Legislation It must be realised that intent must be established before a Queensland Government 1962, Queensland State
prosecution can proceed concerning underage drinking Liquor Act, Author, Brisbane.
Note: See section above on
(Queensland Government 1962, s. 12, ss. 5).
Government
or
documents Note: Author refers back to the sponsor who is
Intent must be established before a prosecution can ‘…’
(Queensland Government 1962, s. 12, ss. 5). also the publisher.
Government publication ‘The total number of Australians who …’ (Australian Bureau of Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 1999,
Statistics (ABS) 1999, p. 2). Regional statistics, Cat. no. 1313.8, Author,
or Canberra.
It was further noted that … (ABS 1999).

Note: Common title/acronym or initialism must also be

added. Subsequent entries use only the common
title/acronym or initialism.
Government report A government report (Royal Commission into Aboriginal Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in
Deaths in Custody (RCADC) 1990) found that … . Custody (RCADC) 1990, Report of the inquiry into
or the death of Ronald Mack, by Commissioner DJ
It has been reported that ‘…’ (Royal Commission into O’Shea, Australian Government Publishing Service,
Aboriginal Deaths in Custody (RCADC) 1990, p. 456). Canberra.
Note: Subsequent entries use only the common
title/acronym or initialism.
 Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

Government publications When citing government, legal or standards documents, it is recommended that for citing divisions of Acts and
and regulations Ordinances, use s. or ss. for citing sections. For example:
Note: This information is • in ss. 4-7 of the Copyright Act 1968
taken from pp. 222– • the Copyright Act, ss. 4-7
227 and you are • in s. 4 of the Casino Control Ordinance.
strongly advised to
read the section When citing regulations, use r. and rr.
regarding this in the For example:
Style manual for • the Copyright Regulations, rr. 18-19
authors, editors and • the Commonwealth’s Copyright Regulations, r. 18
printers. • in r. 4 of the Copyright Regulations.

When citing legal authorities, the following details are necessary:

name of case
• year or volume number or both
• abbreviated name of the report series
• the page on which the report of the case begins.
For example: The State of New South Wales v. The Commonwealth (1915) 20 CLR 54
Standards According to the Standards Association of Australia (1997), … Standards Association of Australia 1997, Australian
standard: pressure equipment—manufacture,
(AS4458-1997), Standards Australia, North
Sydney.
Patents Tan and Arnold (1993) formalised and protected their ideas … Tan, IS & Arnold, FF (US Air Force) 1993, In situ
or molecular composites based on rigid-rod
Tan and Arnold (1993, n.p.) protected their ideas by ‘…’ polyamides, US patent 5 247 057.
Note: The manual is unclear as to how to indicate where the information comes from when there are no page numbers evident on a
document. Use your common sense in this instance. Some suggest you use n.p. to indicate there is no page number.
Hard copy university provided study materials
Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

Study Guide (author Reports by Hallinan (2000) indicate that … Hallinan, P 2000, EDED48102 Development and
known) or disability: study guide, Central Queensland
Similarly, Hallinan (2000, p. 66) reported that ‘…’. University, Rockhampton.
Study Guide (author A recent report (Central Queensland University (CQU) 2000) Central Queensland University (CQU) 2000,
unknown) has suggested that … EDE48201 Development and disability: study
or guide, Author, Rockhampton.
Findings from a 1999 study indicate that ‘…’ (Central
Queensland University (CQU) 2000, p. 5).

Text reprinted in a In a review of the situation, Aries (1962, p. 35) indicates that Aries, P 1962, Centuries of childhood, pp. 31–47, in
university resource ‘…’. Central Queensland University (CQU) 2000,
readings EDED48911 Images of childhood: resource
or
materials, Author, Rockhampton.
Education in Australia in the 1900s did not encourage ‘…’
(Aries 1962, p. 35).

Tutorial/workshop The importance of aerobic exercise … (The respiratory system The respiratory system, Tutorial handout distributed
handout (unpublished) 2000). in the unit, HHM72160 Human anatomy, Central
or Queensland University, Gladstone on 2 March,
Aerobic exercise is valuable because of its ‘…’ (The respiratory 2000.
system 2000, p. 1).

Note: No italics nor quotation marks are shown

because class handouts are unpublished
sources.
 Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list

Lecture notes Thompson (2001) found that the first teaching day may result Thompson, R 2001, The first day experience,
(unpublished) in mixed emotions for many first year teachers. Lecture notes distributed in the unit, EDED48314
or Professional practice III, Central Queensland
It has been found that beginner teachers, on their first day in the University, Bundaberg on 21 April 2001.
class room, will ‘… ’ (Thompson 2001, p. 1).
Lecture material—non- In a lecture, SCI52613 Introductory science, presented at Note: This should not be included in the
print (e.g. whiteboard Central Queensland University, Mackay, on 17 April 2001, Dr reference list. Treat it the same as
notes) J. Watson suggested that ‘…’. personal communication and indicate
‘who’ (author) and ‘where’ (date) in the
sentence in the body of your essay.

Electronic copy university provided study materials

Study guide CD Arithmetic is a branch of mathematics that requires a Mathematics Learning Centre (MLC) 2004,
knowledge of … (Mathematics Learning Centre (MLC) 2004). ‘Transition mathematics 1’,
or MATH40236: Transition Mathematics 1A, (CD-
According to the Mathematics Learning Centre (MLC) (2004, ROM).
n.p.), arithmetic can be defined as ‘…’
Course Resources Online Isolation is a key factor in … (Kendall 1998). Kendall, CN 1998, ‘Teen suicide, sexuality and
(CQU Library) or silence’, Alternative Law Journal, vol. 23, no. 5,
Kendall (1998, p. 217) indicates that ‘isolation thus becomes Central Queensland University Course Resources
intrinsic …’. Online (LAWS11045).
Central Queensland Isolation is a key factor in … (Kendall 1998). Kendall, CN 1998, Teen suicide, sexuality and
University e-Courses or silence, Central Queensland University e-Courses.
(Blackboard) Kendall (1998, p. 217) indicates that ‘isolation thus becomes
intrinsic …’.
Specialised sources
Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list
Conference paper (hard Women have contributed significantly to … (Edwards & Edwards, K & Graham, R 1992, ‘The all female
copy) Graham 1993). expedition: a personal perspective’, Gender on ice:
or proceedings of a conference on women in
Edwards and Graham (1993, p. 77) contend that ‘…’. Antarctica, 8–12 January 1993, Australian
Antarctic Foundation, Canberra, pp. 75–81.
Paper presented at a The escalating abuse of pre-school aged children has become a Lanktree, C & Briere, J January 1991, Early data on
meeting (unpublished) major societal concern (Lanktree & Briere 1991). trauma symptom checklists for children, paper
or presented at the meeting of the American
Lanktree and Briere (1991, p. xxi) indicate that ‘…’. Professional Society on the Abuse of Children, San
Diego.
Note: The title is not italicised as this paper is
unpublished.
Brochure (author is also Guidelines such as those found by the Research and Training Research and Training Centre of Independent
the publisher) Centre of Independent Living (RTCIL) (1993) have become Living (RTCIL) 1993, Guidelines for reporting and
standard procedures. writing about people with disabilities, Author, New
or York.
According to guidelines developed by the Research and
Training Centre of Independent Living (RTCIL) (1993, p. iv),
‘… ’
Pamphlet It has been established that encouraging workers over the age Centrelink 1999, Bonus for working seniors,
of 55 to … (Centrelink 1999). Author, Brisbane.
or
Centrelink (1999, p. 10) concluded that ‘…’.
Video Similarly, in Harry Potter and the philosopher’s stone (2002), Harry Potter and the philosopher’s stone 2002,
… or video recording, Warner Home Video, New York.
The use of lighting to create mood was evidenced in … (Harry
Potter and the philosopher’s stone 2002).
 Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list
Movie The use of animation to create mystery and intrigue were … Harry Potter and the philosopher’s stone 2002,
(Harry Potter and the philosopher’s stone). motion picture, Warner Bros, New York.
or
In the movie Harry Potter and the philosopher’s stone (2002)
animation … .
Television broadcast The idea was first presented in ‘Emission impossible’ (1999). ‘Emission impossible’ 1999, Four Corners,
television broadcast, ABC Television, 8 November.
Note: Often, transcripts of television broadcasts
will appear on the web site of the
sponsoring body. It is often a better idea
to gain the transcript—especially if you
wish to use a direct quote from the
broadcast.
Television advertisement ‘Coke adds life’ (Coca-Cola Amatil 1986), is the slogan used Coca-Cola Amatil 1986, Coca-Cola at the beach,
by … television advertisement, Cruise Advertising,
Brisbane.
Microfiche (without a Mundy (1980, p. 42) explained that … Mundy, G 1980, Ideology and the mass media,
reference number) microfiche, The Library, Social Sciences and
Humanities Division, Australian National
University, Canberra.
Microfiche (with a Rallis (1995, p. 11) believes that … Rallis, SF 1995, Dynamic teachers: leaders of
reference number) change, Sage Productions, London, ERIC
Microfiche ED 388626.
Interview on radio Norris (1997) described the melting of the ice packs in the Norris, D 1997, The greenhouse report, radio
Antarctic … broadcast, ABC Radio National, 6 January.
 Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list
Personal communication In a telephone conversation on 17 July 1999, the current
Director of Nursing at … , Dr Petty, highlighted the …
or
Evidence given by the Director of Nursing at … , suggested
that … (Petty, H 1999, pers. comm., 17 July) … Note: Personal communications, such as
or conversations, letters and personal email
In an email communication on 10 June 1995, The Director of messages, are not usually included in a
… , Mary Wren, indicated that … reference list.
Email message, In an email from J. Henderson on 19 June 1999, the findings of
conversation via bulletin the report were …
board or electronic Note: Cited as personal communication in-text
discussion group This is not included in the reference list.
Handbook e.g. drug Correct drug dosage amounts and common allergic reactions to MIMS Annual Australian Edition 1975, IMS
handbook drugs are crucial to choosing the correct drug for a patient Publishing, Crows Nest.
(MIMS Annual Australian Edition 1975).
Newsbroadcast on radio The discovery was first announced on 4BU News (14 February Note: You should obtain the broadcast
2000). transcript from the sponsor’s website. See
online radio and news broadcasts.
Thesis (unpublished) Herbert-Cheshire (unpub.) argues that Herbert-Cheshire, L 1997, Living by the sea, BA
or Hons Thesis, Central Queensland University.
Marine life found in the local area … (Herbert-Cheshire
unpub.)
Note: The title is not italicised as this has not
been published.
 Examples of how to refer to the resource in-text Model to follow in the reference list
Audio cassette In Plum blossom (1990), it is claimed that entertainers live a Plum blossom 1990, sound recording, White Swan
very complex life. Audio and Video Publishing House, cassette
or WS8871.
Entertainers find that because of the nature of their work, …
(Plum blossom 1990).
Atlas (with an editor) The position of the new city is to be in south-east Queensland Eales, S (ed.) 2003, The Jacaranda atlas, 3rd edn,
(ed. Eales 2003, Map 34). John Wiley & Sons, Brisbane.
Atlas (with no editor) The position of the new city is to be in south-east Queensland The Jacaranda atlas 2003, 3rd edn, John Wiley &
(The Jacaranda atlas 2003, Map 34). Sons, Brisbane.
Dictionary The Australian concise Oxford dictionary (1999, p. 1425) The Australian concise Oxford dictionary 1999, 3rd
defines a throw-away society as one which … edn, Oxford University Press, South Melbourne.
The Bible These particular lines (Psalm 23: 6–8) refer the reader to … Note: Bible references are not included in a
reference list.
 Harvard (author-date) referencing guide

Evaluating web sites for educational use

Take care to evaluate the quality and trustworthiness of any electronic information you
wish to use in an academic assignment. The standard of reliability and validity
for information on web sites is often not as high as for articles in published materials.
Anyone can place information on the WWW, often without any review process. Reliable
sources generally include:
• refereed articles in online journals
• articles from databases selected by the university
• articles published by universities, government departments, business
organisations, reputable lobby groups.
Adopt a cautious approach!
Consider the following:
1. What is the purpose of the web site? Ascertain the purpose (to inform, to persuade, to
sell). If you know the motive behind the web page, you can judge it better.
2. Is there an author/sponsor? If you can not find an author or an organisation responsible
for publishing the site, then it most probably is not reliable. Is the author qualified to
write about this topic? What is the author’s expertise? Is the sponsor reputable? Are
opinions being presented as facts? Try to differentiate fact from fiction. Authenticity is
not always easy to confirm, so test one source
against another. Make sure there is no bias evident. Check that the person
presenting the information does not have a vested interest in proposing the
particular view point.
3. Are references or bibliographies included?
4. How current is the information?
5. When was the web site last updated?
6. Is the information well written, free of spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors?
Note: It is accepted that some of the electronic information which you use may not be
retrievable as it is either being updated/amended or has been deleted. To guard
against this possibility, print the material you are referring to or save it to a disk so 38
that you have a permanent record.
 Harvard (author-date) referencing guide

Sample reference list

References
‘1973 AD to 1981 AD’ n.d., The first personal computers, viewed 6 July 2006,
http://www.maxmon.com/1973ad.htm
Aries, P 1962, Centuries of childhood, pp. 31– 47, in Central Queensland University
(CQU) 2000, EDED48911 Images of childhood: resource materials, Author,
Rockhampton.
Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 1998, 4442.0 One in four children do not live with
both natural parents, viewed 6 July 2006, http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs
%40.nsf/e5cb0b45f4547cc4ca25697500217f47
/28f203d3e10ef834ca2568a90013628c!OpenDocument
Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 1999, Regional statistics, Cat. no. 1313.8,
Author, Canberra.
Australian Government 2004, Salinity, viewed 6 July 2006,
http://www.nrm.gov.au/publications/salinity/index.html
‘Building theories on sand’ 1999, Science, vol. 285, pp. 521–531.
Byrne, J 1995, ‘Disabilities in tertiary education’, in L Rowan & J McNamee (eds),
Voices of a margin: speaking for yourself, CQU Press, Rockhampton. Danaher,
P (ed.) 1998, Beyond the Ferris wheel, CQU Press, Rockhampton. Elder, B
1995, The magic of Australia, Beaut Books, Sydney.
‘Emission impossible’ 1999, Four Corners, television broadcast, ABC Television,
8 November.
Gottliebsen, R 2004, ‘1964–2004 and beyond’, Australian, 28 July, (online Factiva).
Harris, R 2001, The plagiarism handbook, Pyrczak Publishing, Los Angeles.
Jones, P, Smith, A, Hudson, T, Etherton, J, Connelly, W & Gardener, J 1999,
Business management for the new era, Wyland Publishing, Adelaide.
Kendall, CN 1998, ‘Teen suicide, sexuality and silence’, Alternative Law Journal, vol.
23, no. 5, Central Queensland University Course Resources Online (LAWS11045).
Lanktree, C & Briere, J January 1991, Early data on trauma symptom checklists for
children, paper presented at the meeting of the American Professional Society on the
Abuse of Children, San Diego. 39
Mathematics Learning Centre (MLC) 2004, ‘Transition mathematics 1’, MATH40236
Transition Mathematics 1A, (CD-ROM).
Mulgan, R 2000, ‘Perspectives on “the public interest”’, Canberra Bulletin of Public
Administration, no. 95, March, pp. 5–12, (online ProQuest).
Schwartz, HJ 1985, Interactive writing: composing with a word processor, Holt,
Reinhardt & Winston, Austin.
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