National Museum of Australia

The National Museum of Australia is a premier cultural institution located on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin in Acton, Canberra. Housed in a striking modern building, the museum brings to life the rich and diverse stories of Australia through compelling objects, ideas, and events. With a collection spanning 50,000 years of Australian history and culture, it offers a deep, engaging look into the nation's social history, unique landscapes, and the people who have shaped it.

Entry to the museum's permanent galleries is free, making it an accessible destination for families, tourists, and researchers alike. While general admission is complimentary, costs may apply for some special exhibitions and events, ensuring there is always something new and exciting to discover. The museum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, closed only on Christmas Day, and provides a welcoming space for all visitors on the lands of the Ngunnawal, Ngunawal, and Ngambri peoples.

Exhibitions, Collections & Defining Moments

The museum's exhibitions are designed to explore key moments, people, and places in Australian history. From the permanent Landmarks gallery, which examines defining moments of a nation, to traveling international exhibitions like the upcoming Antarctica and Terracotta Warriors showcases, there is a diverse range of experiences. The collection highlights include the Joan Richmond collection, the Les Darcy locket, the Miss Australia crown, and The Australian Sketchbook, each telling a unique story of Australian identity.

We also offer a dynamic online resource, the Defining Moments Digital Classroom, which brings Australian history to life for students and educators nationwide. The Stories Explorer and audio-on-demand features allow visitors to dive deeper into the collection from anywhere in the world.

What We Offer for Families and Children

The National Museum of Australia is dedicated to providing enriching experiences for visitors of all ages. The Tim and Gina Fairfax Discovery Centre is a fun, immersive play-and-learn space specifically designed for children from birth to six years of all abilities. This interactive environment encourages curiosity and creativity through hands-on activities.

Our family visit programs, included in the event calendar, offer guided tours, workshops, and seasonal activities that make history engaging and accessible for younger audiences. These experiences are crafted to foster a lifelong love of learning and discovery.

Services and On-Site Facilities

A full day out is made easy with our range of on-site amenities. The Museum Shop offers a curated selection of fashion, decor, gifts, books, and jewellery, many of which are inspired by the collection and exhibitions. The Museum Cafe provides a relaxing spot for a meal or coffee with views over the lake and landscape.

For those looking to host a unique event, our venue hire service provides stunning spaces for weddings, corporate functions, gala balls, and school formals. The museum also offers guided tours and experiences, including virtual reality journeys like The Great Kimberley Wilderness, which transports visitors to breathtaking landscapes with narration by Luke Hemsworth.

• Free general admission to permanent galleries
• Daily opening hours from 9 am to 5 pm
• Fully accessible facilities and programs
• On-site cafe and museum shop for convenience
• Venue hire for weddings and corporate events

Why Visitors Choose This Canberra Landmark

Visitors consistently rank the National Museum of Australia as a must-see destination in Canberra. Its 4.5-star rating across thousands of reviews highlights the exceptional quality of the exhibits and the architectural beauty of the building itself. The museum masterfully blends high-tech interactive video walls with rare artifacts, creating a multi-sensory journey through the nation's past.

What sets this museum apart is its inclusive approach to storytelling. It addresses the full breadth of Australia's social history, from Indigenous Australians' right to vote and the handback of Uluru to the Anangu people, to the arrival of the first Olympian and the impact of the Great Depression. This commitment to presenting a balanced, reflective narrative resonates deeply with both local and international audiences.

Planning Your Visit to the Acton Peninsula

The museum is conveniently located on Lawson Crescent at the Acton Peninsula and is easily accessible by public transport, bicycle, and car. The site provides on-site parking, and the paved pedestrian paths make for a scenic walk along the lake. Being a Quality Tourism Accredited Business, we adhere to high standards of visitor service and experience.

Before planning your visit, it is advisable to check our website for the latest exhibition schedules, ticket bookings for special events, and any safety notices. Our friendly team can be contacted via freecall at 1800 026 132 or by email to answer any questions.

Serving the Australian Capital Territory and Beyond

While situated in Acton, the museum serves as a national institution for all Australians and a key attraction in the Australian Capital Territory. It offers educational outreach programs, digital excursions, and professional learning resources for teachers, ensuring our collection's reach extends far beyond Canberra. The National History Challenge and onsite school programs further cement our role as a leader in historical education across the country.

Ongoing Safety and Accessibility Commitments

We are committed to the safety and well-being of all visitors. The museum maintains up-to-date safety notices, such as the recent product safety recall for LED tea lights from past workshops and an ongoing statement regarding remediation work by the National Capital Authority near our road and pedestrian paths. Full accessibility information is available on our website to ensure a comfortable visit for everyone.

Questions Visitors Ask

Our most frequently asked questions are addressed here to help you prepare for your visit. For any additional queries, our customer service team is always ready to assist.