Daily 75-minute sessions: 9.15am, 10.45am, 12.15pm, 2pm, 3.30pmThis fun, immersive play and learn space is designed for children of all abilities from birth to 6 years, their families and carers. Every session includes free, child-led activities in our mini makers corner.
11.15am, 3.15pm plus 1.15pm on Friday, Saturday, SundayDive into the living heart of one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. Life in the Great Barrier Reef is a captivating 360-degree VR journey through the UNESCO World Heritage listed marine park.
From 11 December 2026Journey to ancient China and come face to face with the imperial army that time could not defeat.
10.15am, 12.15pm, 2.15pm Be transported to one of the world’s most breathtaking and pristine landscapes in The Great Kimberley Wilderness. You'll cross stunning coastlines and majestic gorges, venturing deep into these timeless lands.
Play free at the Tim and Gina Fairfax Discovery Centre in the lead up to International Day of People with Disability. For children of all abilities from birth to 6 years, their families and carers.
Explore the story of the Australian continent in our Great Southern Land gallery, with reduced lighting and sound for visitors who prefer a quieter experience.
Explore key moments in the history of modern Australia in our Landmarks gallery, with reduced lighting and sound for visitors who prefer a quieter experience.
This guided tour provides an excellent introduction to the Museum, exploring highlights from our permanent exhibition galleries.
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.
Quarter past the hour from 10.15am to 3.15pmJoin a free 10-minute host talk in our Great Southern Land, Landmarks or First Australians galleries or the Garden of Australian Dreams.
10amThis 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.
Take a guided tour with one of our hosts to learn about First Nations peoples, their history, culture and connection to country.
Explore stunning objects and rich multi-sensory experiences as you discover the story of the vast, vibrant Australian continent. See how the continent has transformed into one of the most diverse and resilient places on Earth – and how these changes can guide us in the future.
Daily at 9am, 11am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pmTraverse the vast, vibrant Australian continent on this tour of the Museum’s environmental history gallery, Great Southern Land.
Tuesdays and Thursdays during ACT school termEnjoy free 15-minute story time sessions in the workshop next to the Discovery Centre. Drop-in, places are limited.
From the encounters between this continent’s First Nations peoples and those on board the Endeavour, through to Covid-19 and school strikes for climate, Landmarks explores the moments and objects that help define the Australian nation.
First Tuesday of the monthExplore the Tim and Gina Fairfax Discovery Centre in quiet hours sessions for visitors who prefer a quieter experience. These sessions offer reduced noise and sensory experiences.
Nourish your soul and challenge your assumptions as singer-songwriter Lior, pianist/composer Ade Vincent, Noongar composer Elizabeth Sheppard and other special guests delve into the creative process and ask whether AI is a tool or threat. Conducted by Jessica Cottis, with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra Chamber Ensemble, in our Gandel Atrium.
Can Museums be living, expansive archives of Indigenous knowledge? Hear from one of the world's leading experts on Pasifika art, Dr Maia Nuku, from The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, as she considers the role and relevance of museums in the 21st century. Maia's presentation will be followed by a conversation with Dr Jilda Andrews, Deputy Director, First Nations at the National Museum of Australia.
Meet Carly Findlay OAM, writer, speaker, activist and editor of Growing Up Disabled in Australia. Hear stories behind various contributors and Carly’s own experiences. Followed by a book signing.
Explore a sensory art trail, nature-inspired craft activities and Auslan story time. Then join Emma from Zen Music Play Circle in a series of fun workshops celebrating our beautiful Garden of Australian Dreams.
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The National Museum of Australia acknowledges First Australians and recognises their continuous connection to Country, community and culture.
