Free museums in Australia

The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is a significant botanical institution that spans across two locations - Melbourne and Cranbourne. The Melbourne Gardens, founded in 1846, sprawls across 38 hectares of land, showcasing nearly 50,000 individual plants from 8,500 different species. On the other hand, the Cranbourne Gardens, established in 1970, is a 363-hectare site dedicated to Australian plants, featuring native bushland, heathlands, wetlands, and woodlands.

The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia is an art gallery located at Federation Square in Melbourne, Victoria. It houses the Australian part of the art collection of the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV). This gallery should not be confused with the Ian Potter Museum of Art operated by the University of Melbourne. The collection at the Ian Potter Centre is one of the oldest and most well-known in the country, with over 20,000 Australian artworks, including paintings, sculpture, prints, photography, fashion and textiles.

The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, previously known as the Museum of Contemporary Art Sydney, is a prominent art museum situated in Sydney. It was inaugurated in November 1991 and is housed in a building originally constructed for the Maritime Services Board, also known as the MSB building. The museum showcases a wide range of contemporary art from Australia and around the world.

The City Botanic Gardens, located in Brisbane, Australia, is one of the city's primary green spaces. It spans an impressive area of nearly 18 hectares, providing a lush, green oasis amidst the towering skyscrapers of the city's business district. The gardens are a testament to the city's commitment to preserving and promoting its natural environment.

The Museum of Sydney is a historical collection and exhibition, built on the ruins of the house of the first Governor of New South Wales, Arthur Phillip. This location gives the museum a unique historical significance, as it stands on the site of the first Government House of Australia, constructed in 1788. The original house was later abandoned, and its foundations were uncovered by archaeologists in 1983. The new museum building was designed by architects from Denton Corker Marshall and is part of the Governor Phillip Tower development.

Three floors packed with history of the most magical district in Sydney. Learn about the development of the area, from pre-European era to the present. The exhibitions are interactive and highly engaging, kids will love it. Explore various archaeological artefacts and hear stories about events and p

The Queensland Museum, located in Brisbane, is the state museum of Queensland. It is dedicated to showcasing natural history, cultural heritage, science, and human achievement. Visitors can expect to explore a wide range of exhibits that delve into these diverse areas, providing a comprehensive understanding of Queensland's rich history and culture.

The North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, located in Coffs Harbour, is a 20-hectare oasis that offers a blend of natural coastal forests, beautifully planted gardens, discovery walks, and picnic areas. This makes it an ideal location for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful day in a beautiful setting.

The National Gallery of Australia (NGA) is a significant art museum located in Canberra, the capital of Australia. The museum specializes in 19th and 20th-century paintings and sculptures. It is a great place for art enthusiasts and tourists who are interested in exploring the rich history of Australian and international art.

The Art Gallery of New South Wales, situated in Sydney, Australia, holds the distinction of being the most significant public gallery in Sydney and the fourth largest in the country. This makes it a notable destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike, offering a wide range of exhibits and collections to explore.

The White Rabbit Gallery is a contemporary art museum situated in the heart of Sydney, specifically in the inner-city suburb of Chippendale, New South Wales, Australia. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists who are exploring the city.

The Old Treasury Building, a significant historical site in Melbourne, was constructed between 1858 and 1862. It was initially designed to serve as the home for the Treasury Department of the Government of Victoria and the Governor In Council. This Renaissance Revival building, built during the Victorian Gold Rush, is a testament to the wealth accumulated during that period.

The Australian Museum in Sydney, established in 1827, is the oldest museum in Australia. It primarily focuses on natural history and anthropology, housing extensive collections in zoology (vertebrates and invertebrates), mineralogy, paleontology, and anthropology. This museum offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore Australia's rich natural and cultural heritage.

The Powerhouse Museum in Sydney is recognized as Australia's largest and most renowned museum. It is home to a vast array of exhibits that showcase numerous discoveries and inventions of the human mind. This museum is a testament to human creativity and innovation, offering a unique opportunity to explore the breadth and depth of human ingenuity.

The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) is situated in the inner Darwin suburb of Fannie Bay. This location is easily accessible and offers a variety of exhibits and collections for visitors to explore. The museum is governed by the Board of the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory and is supported by the Museums and Art Galleries of the Northern Territory Foundation.

The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) is a significant cultural institution located in Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania. Tasmania is an island state of Australia, situated in the southeast of the country. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and diverse culture of this region.

The Ballarat Fine Art Gallery, nestled in the city of Ballarat, holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest regional art gallery in Australia. This makes it a significant destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike, who are interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Australian art.

The Cape Jaffa Lighthouse, a decommissioned lighthouse, was originally situated on Margaret Brock Reef near Cape Jaffa on the southeast coast of South Australia. Since 1976, the tower of the lighthouse has been relocated to the town of Kingston SE.

The Australian Centre for the Moving Image, also known as ACMI, is a cultural hub located in Melbourne, Australia. It is dedicated to celebrating, exploring, and promoting the cultural and creative richness of moving images in all forms. This includes cinema, television, video games, and digital culture. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the world of moving images and understand their impact on our culture and society.

The Art Gallery of South Australia, also known as AGSA, is a significant cultural institution located in Adelaide. It was originally established as the National Gallery of South Australia in 1881, making it a place of historical significance as well as a hub for art enthusiasts.

The South Australian Museum, founded in 1856, is a significant cultural institution located in Adelaide, South Australia. It is situated in the city's cultural district on North Terrace, making it easily accessible for visitors. The museum's rich history and central location make it a notable point of interest for tourists exploring Adelaide.

The Royal Australian Mint is located in the federal capital city of Canberra, specifically on Denison Street in the suburb of Deakin. Its location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are touring the capital city.

The Canberra Museum and Gallery (CMAG) is a significant cultural institution located in the heart of Australia's capital city, Canberra. It serves as both an art gallery and a museum, offering visitors a chance to explore a diverse range of exhibits and collections. The museum is situated in the city centre, making it easily accessible for tourists.

The Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA) is a public institution situated in the Perth Cultural Centre. It is conveniently located near other significant cultural landmarks such as the Western Australian Museum and the State Library of Western Australia. This makes it an ideal destination for tourists interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Western Australia.

The Newcastle Museum is situated in the city of Newcastle, which is in New South Wales, Australia. This location is significant as it allows visitors to explore the rich history and culture of the region while also enjoying the museum's diverse exhibits and collections.

The Migration Museum in Adelaide is a social history museum that is situated in South Australia. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the history of immigration and settlement in South Australia. The museum is conveniently located, making it an accessible destination for tourists.

The Royal Australian Navy Heritage Centre serves as the maritime museum of the Royal Australian Navy. It is conveniently located within the Public Access Area on the northern end of the Garden Island naval base in Sydney. This location allows visitors to easily access the museum and explore the rich history and heritage of the Australian Navy.

The National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA) in Canberra is a significant cultural institution in Australia. It is responsible for the development, preservation, maintenance, promotion, and access to a wide range of media including film, television, radio, and sound recordings, video games, new media, and related documents and artifacts. This extensive collection spans from works of the late 19th century to the present, offering a comprehensive insight into Australia's audiovisual history.

Located in Canberra, the capital of Australia, the Australian War Memorial houses the history of World War I and World War II. It provides a comprehensive overview of these significant periods in world history, making it a valuable destination for those interested in military history and the global impact of these wars.

Elizabeth Farm is a significant historic site in Sydney, Australia. It was the residence of John Macarthur and his wife Elizabeth, who were pioneers in the production and sale of merino wool in the country. This makes it a place of interest for those keen on understanding Australia's early economic history and the beginnings of its wool industry.

The Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA) is a contemporary art institute located in the heart of Perth, Western Australia. It was established in 1989, evolving from an alternative art space known as Praxis that was active in the 1970s. PICA offers a platform for Australian and international visual, performance, and interdisciplinary arts.

The National Archives of Australia, located in Canberra, is a government institution that is tasked with the collection and preservation of government records. This institution also has smaller offices in each state capital and in Darwin. As a visitor, you can explore the rich history of Australia through these records, providing a unique insight into the country's past.

Fannie Bay Gaol is a historic prison located in Fannie Bay, Northern Territory, Australia. It functioned as Her Majesty's Gaol and Labour Prison from 20 September 1883 until 1 September 1979. This long history makes it a significant site for understanding Australia's penal history.

The Australian Fleet Air Arm Museum, previously known as Australia's Museum of Flight, is a military aerospace museum situated at the naval air station HMAS Albatross, in close proximity to Nowra, New South Wales. This museum is a significant destination for those interested in military aerospace history and the evolution of aviation in Australia.

The Victoria Police Museum is conveniently located in the mezzanine of the WTC Wharf building in the city of Melbourne, Australia. It is open to the public, making it an accessible destination for tourists and locals alike who are interested in learning more about the history of law enforcement in Victoria.

The Museum of the Riverina, located in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia, is a local history museum. It offers a deep dive into the history and culture of the region, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the area's past and its impact on the present.

The Princess Royal Fortress, also known as Albany Forts, is a historical site located on the northern shore of Atatürk entrance on Princess Royal Harbour on Mount Adelaide. It overlooks the beautiful King George Sound in Albany, Western Australia. Today, it operates as a museum, offering visitors a chance to delve into the past and learn about its rich history.

The Wollongong Botanic Garden is a beautiful location situated in the suburb of Keiraville, at the foot of Mount Keira in New South Wales, Australia. This garden is a part of the local botanical gardens of the Illawarra and was established in 1964. It offers a serene environment for visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature.

The Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, previously known as the Rosser Park Regional Botanic Gardens, are situated on Ashmore Road in Benowa, Gold Coast, Australia. This location is easily accessible and offers a serene environment for visitors to explore and enjoy the diverse plant life.

A museum of Queensland University of Technology that shows contemporary art and works of their art students. You can see really young and unique art here.

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is a museum and art gallery situated in the Southbank district of Melbourne. Established in 1861, it holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest public gallery in Australia. This historical significance and the vast collection of art it houses make it a notable destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG) is a significant cultural institution located in Launceston, Tasmania, Australia. It holds the distinction of being the largest museum in Australia that is not situated in a capital city. This makes it a unique destination for tourists who are interested in exploring Australia's rich cultural and historical heritage outside of the usual metropolitan areas.

The Cairns Court House Complex, located at 38-40 Abbott Street in Cairns City, Queensland, Australia, is a heritage-listed site. This complex includes a former courthouse and a former public administration building, which now serves as an art gallery. This historical site offers a unique blend of history and art, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

The Olive Pink Botanic Garden, located in Alice Springs in the Northern Territory of Australia, spans across 16 hectares (40 acres). The garden specializes in plants that are native to the arid central Australian region. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in botany and the specific flora of this part of Australia.

The University of Queensland Anthropology Museum, situated in Brisbane, Australia, is home to the largest university collection of ethnographic material culture in the country. This makes it a significant destination for those interested in anthropology and cultural studies.

The Australian Inland Botanic Gardens (AIBG) is a vast botanical garden and arboretum spanning 152 hectares. It is situated in the regions of The Mallee and Sunraysia in New South Wales, Australia. The garden is unique in its focus, with half of its area dedicated to the cultivation and preservation of Australian flora.

Also known as Regatta Point, this exhibition shows people, events, and history of Canberra as the symbol of Federation as the days went by.

This collection of gemstone so typical for Australia has won many awards. Interesting exhibition about its origin.

The University of Queensland Art Museum is located in the James and Mary Emelia Mayne Centre at the St Lucia campus of the University of Queensland. It serves as the university's art museum and public gallery, showcasing a variety of art pieces and exhibitions.

The Waddamana Hydro-Electric power station, which opened its doors in 1916, holds the distinction of being the first hydro-electric power plant ever operated by the Tasmanian Hydro-Electric Department. This historical significance adds a layer of interest for visitors who are keen on understanding the evolution of hydro-electric power in Tasmania.

The Queenscliffe Historical Museum, located in the town of Queenscliff in Victoria, Australia, is a regional cultural history museum. It offers a deep dive into the cultural history of the region, making it an interesting destination for those interested in learning more about the area's past.

Rockhampton Zoo is situated within the beautiful grounds of the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens in the suburb of The Range. This location provides a serene and natural environment for the animals and a picturesque setting for visitors. The zoo is easily accessible and offers a unique combination of natural beauty and wildlife.

The Koorie Heritage Trust is an Indigenous not-for-profit cultural organisation that is based in Melbourne. This organisation is dedicated to preserving and promoting the culture of the Indigenous people of south-east Australia. It is a significant cultural institution that provides a deep insight into the rich history and traditions of the Indigenous people.

One of the best galleries in Adelaide focusing on innovation. A must see not only for fans of art!

Don Bank, also known as the Don Bank Museum, is a heritage-listed former residence that has been transformed into a house museum. It is located at 6 Napier Street, North Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style and living conditions of the mid-19th century.

A gallery of contemporary art. Its expositions are focused on modern Australian and Aboriginal art. Those who like modern art have to visit this place.

Fort Scratchley, once a coastal defence installation, now serves as a museum. It is situated in Newcastle East, a suburb of Newcastle, New South Wales in Australia. This historical site offers visitors a glimpse into Australia's military past, with its origins dating back to 1882 when it was built to defend the city against a potential Russian attack.

This gallery is worth visiting if you are a fan of unusual, innovative art. Young artists present here their work at short-term exhibitions.

This garden on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin shows an extensive collection of sculptures. The Fog sculpture is one of the most famous.

Meroogal, located at 35 West Street in the city of Shoalhaven, New South Wales, Australia, is a heritage-listed former residence that now serves as a house museum. The house was designed and built in 1886 by Kenneth Mackenzie, making it a significant piece of architectural history.

The Magnetic Island Museum, located at 11-15 Granite Street, Picnic Bay, Townsville, Queensland, Australia, is a heritage-listed former school known as Picnic Bay State School. The building, which was designed by the Queensland Department of Public Works, was constructed in 1921 and has since been transformed into a museum.

The Museum of Tropical Queensland, abbreviated as MTQ, is a significant part of the Queensland Museum Network. It is situated in the vibrant city of Townsville, Queensland, Australia. The museum offers a unique insight into the rich history and biodiversity of North Queensland, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

Wireless Hill Park, located in Ardross, Western Australia, is a 40-hectare park that is home to the Wireless Hill Museum. This park is a significant urban bushland area and is listed in the Register of the National Estate and the State Register of Heritage Places. The museum is housed in the preserved buildings of the former Applecross Wireless Station, an early radio station in Western Australia.

The Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum, located at 144 Goondoon Street in Gladstone, Queensland, Australia, is a heritage-listed site. The building, which was once a town hall, now serves as an art gallery and museum, showcasing a variety of exhibits and collections.

The Royal Australian Armoured Corps Memorial and Army Tank Museum is situated in Puckapunyal, an Australian Army training facility and base. It is located 10 km west of Seymour, in the heart of Victoria, in the south-eastern part of Australia. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region.

The Kissing Point Fortification is currently the home of the Army Museum of North Queensland. The fortification is situated on a rocky headland that separates Cleveland Bay and Rowes Bay at the northern end of The Strand in Townsville. The Jezzine Barracks complex, which is part of the fortification, extends approximately ten hectares to its south west.

Travel back in time at the Gerringong Heritage Museum and discover the captivating story of this charming coastal town. Uncover fascinating exhibits, engage with interactive displays, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Gerringong's past. The Gerringong Heritage Museum welcomes group vi

The TYTO Regional Art Gallery is a significant cultural institution located in Ingham, Queensland, within the Hinchinbrook Shire. It offers a platform for local and traveling exhibitions, contributing to the vibrant art scene in the region.

The Old Walhalla Fire Station Museum is part of the larger Walhalla Museum, which includes another building. The fire station itself was constructed in 1901, making it a significant piece of the town's history. Visitors to the museum can gain insights into the past through the preserved architecture and exhibits.

The Hazelhurst Arts Centre, also known as Hazelhurst Regional Gallery & Arts Centre, Hazelhurst Gallery and simply Hazelhurst, is situated on Kingsway in the suburb of Gymea, in the southern part of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. This location makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists alike, offering a unique cultural experience in the heart of the city.

The Grainger Museum is a unique institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the life and works of Percy Grainger, a renowned composer, folklorist, educator, and pianist. The museum houses a vast collection of items that provide insight into Grainger's career, his music, and his personal life. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including original manuscripts, published scores, musical instruments, and personal items.

The Bribie Island Seaside Museum, located at 1 South Esplanade, Bongaree, on the Pumicestone Passage side of Bribie Island, opened its doors to the public on 14 May 2010. The museum is situated in the City of Moreton Bay in Queensland, Australia, and offers visitors a chance to delve into the rich history and culture of the region.

The Central Australian Aviation Museum is situated in the heart of Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia. This museum is a significant part of the region's history, having served as the main base of operations for Connellan Airways from 1939 to 1968. Today, it stands as a testament to the rich aviation history of Central Australia, offering visitors a unique insight into the development of the region.

The Landsborough Shire Historical Museum is situated in the Sunshine Coast town of Landsborough in Queensland, Australia. It is a museum dedicated to local history and social history, providing a deep dive into the past of this region.

One of the galleries presenting Australian Aboriginal Art focusing mainly on artists from the Western Desert areas.

24HR Art pursues the goal of gathering contemporary visual art in an experimental and accessible way for all visitors.

The Shepparton Art Museum is a prominent art institution situated in Shepparton, Victoria, Australia. It is a key destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike, offering a unique blend of cultural and artistic experiences.

Meet different cultures through this gallery's art displays. Intriguing pieces from Asian artists in a pleasant setting.

A lively gallery that promotes contemporary art through a series of exhibitions, events and more. Always something going on here.

The Eric Thomas Galley Museum, also referred to as the Galley Museum, is a photographic and general museum situated in Driffield Street, Queenstown. This museum is a significant destination for those interested in photography and history, offering a unique insight into the past through its extensive collection of photographs and historical materials.

The Manly Art Gallery and Museum (MAGAM), situated in Manly, New South Wales, Australia, holds the distinction of being the first metropolitan-based regional gallery in New South Wales. This makes it a significant part of the region's cultural and historical landscape.

The Monash Gallery of Art (MGA), located at 860 Ferntree Gully Road, Wheelers Hill, is the premier cultural facility of the City of Monash. It is recognized as the Australian home of photography and is a leading public gallery.

The Burrendong Botanic Garden and Arboretum is a vast 167-hectare botanical garden and arboretum situated near Mumbil, in New South Wales, Australia. It is a member of the Botanic Gardens Conservation International and is internationally recognized with the code BURR. The garden is located 25 km from Wellington in the central western part of NSW and adjacent to the shores of Lake Burrendong.