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.
This exhibition brings together objects held in the Museum’s collection to explore the long reach of the classical past and its influence in Australia.
Saturday, Sunday, Monday hourly from 10.15am to 3.15pmBe transported to one of the world’s most breathtaking and pristine landscapes in The Great Kimberley Wilderness – a 35-minute virtual reality documentary narrated by Luke Hemsworth.
First Tuesday of the monthExplore the Tim and Gina Fairfax Discovery Centre in a quiet hours session for visitors who prefer a quieter experience. These sessions offer reduced noise and sensory experiences.
Our Story sheds light on the little-known history of Aboriginal and Chinese relations in colonial Australia. Curated by artist and researcher Zhou Xiaoping, the exhibition draws on historical records and oral histories to bring these untold stories into the collective consciousness of all Australians.
Landing 4 July 25This world-first exhibition of Australia’s favourite man from the moon explores the creative world of Norman Hetherington, the remarkable artist, cartoonist and puppeteer behind Mr Squiggle and Friends.
Discover the story of the vast, vibrant Australian continent in our Great Southern Land gallery. For visitors who prefer smaller crowds and a quieter experience.
Play free at the Tim and Gina Fairfax Discovery Centre in celebration of NAIDOC Week. For children of all abilities from birth to 6 years, their families and carers.
Wednesday 9 to Friday 11 July, 10–11am and 11.30am–12.30pmJoin Wiradjuri–Irish artist Bria McCarthy for an adventure into light and shadow. Craft your own characters and props, then step inside the Shadow House tent to see how shadow puppets can be used to tell stories. Suitable for ages 5–12 years, children must be accompanied by an adult.
Join us for this special event in NAIDOC week to find out how Indigenous Protected Areas are transforming Indigenous communities and contributing to the global fight against environmental degradation, species loss and climate change. This event features a film screening of Keeping Country Strong followed by a panel discussion.
Monday 14 to Wednesday 16 July, 10–11am and 11.30am–12.30pm Step into the magical world of puppetry in this hands-on workshop with puppeteer and artist Marianne Mettes. Explore puppet-making and performance while learning about the art, movement and storytelling that bring puppets to life. Suitable for ages 5–9 years, children must be accompanied by an adult.
Thursday 17 and Friday 18 July, 10am–12pmLearn the art of marionettes with puppeteer and artist Marianne Mettes. Build your own puppet and experiment with movement, storytelling and performance – perfect for emerging artists, performers and imaginative thinkers! Suitable for children aged 10–15 years, children must be accompanied by an adult.
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.
On the hour between 10am and 4pm Join a free 10-minute host talk in our Great Southern Land 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.
3–4pmTake 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.
How has a digital twin helped the Museum capture Tom Hetherington-Welch performing with his grandfather’s puppets? Join Asti Sherring and Candice Cranmer from our Changeable and Digital Collections team as they discuss their collaboration with the Hetherington family and the University of New South Wales. Free and exclusive to Friends, bookings essential. Join Friends
Journey through Korean culture in this fascinating look at the country’s dynasties, empires, states, foreign conquests, occupation and division. Michael J Seth explores how Korea transformed from isolated peninsula to two starkly different nations, from the seventh century to today. Exclusive to Friends. Join Friends
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The National Museum of Australia acknowledges First Australians and recognises their continuous connection to Country, community and culture.
