What is the Australian Museum?
The Australian Museum, on College Street in Sydney, is Australia's oldest museum. Founded in 1827, it focuses on natural history, science and First Nations cultures.
The museum began as a colonial collection of natural specimens and grew into a major research institution. Its scientists study animals, minerals, fossils and ecosystems, and its collections hold millions of items.
Popular galleries include the dinosaur exhibition, the mineral collection, and the 200 Treasures gallery, which displays significant objects and stories from Australia's history. The museum's First Nations galleries share the knowledge and cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
A modern makeover
A major renovation, completed in 2020, added a new entrance and the Crystal Hall, along with larger exhibition halls able to host major touring shows. The project made the historic building more open and accessible.
The museum faces Hyde Park, across from St Mary's Cathedral, and is a short walk from Museum station. Its research centre on Lizard Island in Queensland studies the Great Barrier Reef.
Did You Know?
The Australian Museum's collection holds more than 21 million objects and specimens.