Welcome

Explore the Untold Stories of Cook and the First Australians in our new exhibition marking the 250th anniversary of the Endeavour's voyage up the east coast of Australia. Tickets are timed to assist in social distancing for the safety of visitors and our staff. Visitors who arrive without a ticket will be welcomed into the exhibition when space permits.

Talking Blak to History in our First Australians gallery features powerful objects and stories that speak to the aftermath of colonisation, of survival and resilience.

Discover the stories behind some of the amazing objects on show in our galleries. Two self-guided family trails are available, for ages 2–5 and 5–8 years. See what you can find along the way.

Discover the remarkable stories or ordinary Australians in this exhibition celebrating the bush, the outback, the coast and the people who live there. The exhibition features photographs from the Australian Geographic archive.

Learn about the lives, aspirations and stories of extraordinary Australians through our annual exhibition of objects of personal significance chosen by Australian of the Year recipients from each state and territory.

Weekdays 11–22 January 2021
30-minute sessions, first at 10am, last at 3.30pm
See our 2021 Australian of the Year Awards exhibition then create an object using modelling clay that represents yourself or someone extraordinary in your life. Bookings essential

Browse our range of beautiful homewares, glassware, jewellery, Indigenous products, toys, books, bath and body products, candles, giftware and more. The Dyara Indigenous Arts Hub, in the Gandel Atrium just outside the Shop, is open 10am to 3pm weekends and ACT school holidays.

See highlights from our collection, big and small. A great place to start your Museum visit.

Stunning architecture and spectacular views over Lake Burley Griffin combine to create the perfect place to enjoy breakfast, lunch or an afternoon tea escape with friends. Check our Museum Cafe page for times.

The Landmarks gallery explores Australian history since European settlement, through stories of Australian places from across the continent.

The First Australians gallery is located on two levels and traces the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, their spirituality, diversity, identity and survival.

This exhibition in the First Australians Focus Gallery showcases the extraordinary diversity of Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It includes works from artists including Rover Thomas, Billy Atkins and Robin Kankapankatja.

10am and 2pm
This guided tour provides an insight into the stories and meanings hidden in the Museum building, design and landscapes. Please wear appropriate footwear for walking outside.

30-minute sessions, one booking per session. Bookings essential
Play the Museum’s interactive adventure game, fun for kids and adults alike.

Join us as we discuss Terry Smyth's book Denny Day: The Life and Times of Australia's Greatest Lawman — the Forgotten Hero of the Myall Creek Massacre. This compelling blend of biography and history traces the life of the police magistrate who stood against lawlessness on Australia's frontiers. Exclusive to Friends. Join Friends