On Acton Peninsula beside Lake Burley Griffin, the National Museum of Australia explores the country’s social history through objects, stories and exhibitions. General admission is free, and some special exhibitions require a separate ticket. Inside, the First Australians gallery gives space to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, while Phar Lap’s heart and a Holden prototype bring national stories into focus. Look out for the curving Gandel Atrium and the Garden of Australian Dreams, then pause at the café for lake views. Families can add time at the Discovery Centre.
Stories told through objects
The National Museum of Australia explores the country’s social history through objects and exhibitions about its land and people. Its collections range across Indigenous cultures, European settlement and contemporary life. Subjects include migration, sport, politics, cars and the relationship between people and the environment.
The museum brings widely different objects into the same national story. Phar Lap’s preserved heart sits among exhibits that include a Holden prototype, bark canoes and material connected with explorers Burke and Wills. Other collection themes include the Olympics, colonial history and Aboriginal art and craft. The variety makes it possible to follow a particular interest, or move between subjects as you explore.
First Australians and the national story
The First Australians gallery focuses on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories. Its displays address both longstanding traditions and modern stories, placing Indigenous experiences at the centre of the museum’s account of Australia.
Other galleries examine the country’s changing society and culture through objects, historical material and interactive displays. The museum’s permanent exhibitions sit alongside temporary shows, so the subjects on display can change. Check the museum’s website before travelling if you have a particular exhibition in mind.
Architecture and the lakeside setting
The building’s looping lines and unusual angles give it a distinctive profile on Acton Peninsula. Inside, the Gandel Atrium draws the eye through its sweeping forms and arrangement of objects. At the centre, the Garden of Australian Dreams is an interactive outdoor exhibition and a place to walk among the museum’s landscape elements.
The position beside Lake Burley Griffin gives the visit an outdoor dimension. You can spend time in the museum’s free outdoor areas, or take a break at the café, whose deck looks across the water. General admission to the museum is free, though some special exhibitions are ticketed. There is paid parking on site, and wheelchair-accessible entrances, lifts, seating and restrooms are available.
A visit with children
The Tim and Gina Fairfax Discovery Centre gives children a dedicated place to learn through play. Its activities include hands-on experiences, virtual storytelling, animation and imaginative play. The museum also has a café and restrooms, which can make it easier to plan a longer family visit.
The galleries cover a broad range of subjects, and the layout can be hard to follow without a map. Pick one up on arrival and allow a few hours if you want to see both indoor displays and the outdoor spaces. The museum is open daily from 9am to 5pm, according to its published schedule.
FAQ
Is admission to the National Museum of Australia free?
General admission is free. Some special exhibitions have a separate admission charge.
How long should you spend at the National Museum of Australia?
Allow about two to three hours to explore the collections. Add time if you want to visit the outdoor areas or Discovery Centre.
What can you see at the National Museum of Australia?
Highlights include the First Australians gallery, Phar Lap’s heart, a Holden prototype, the Gandel Atrium and the Garden of Australian Dreams.
Is the National Museum of Australia suitable for children?
Yes. The Tim and Gina Fairfax Discovery Centre has play-based activities, including hands-on experiences and virtual storytelling.
Is there parking at the National Museum of Australia?
Paid parking is available on site. Free street parking is also listed among the nearby amenities.
