Located on Acton Peninsula and next to the Australian National University, this museum focuses on Australia’s social history and the people, products and events that have shaped that history.
Opened in 2001 the museum highlights the thousands of years of indigenous history, European settlement as well as modern social and cultural events and the ever changing social structures of today. The building itself is described to be inspired by a jigsaw puzzle, interpreted to reflect Australia’s many pieces coming together as one.
The museum is home to a vast permanent collection as well as hosting various touring exhibits throughout the year. One item of interest on display is the Holden prototype car number 1, one of only three of the original test cars surviving today that than went on to influence the iconic Australian built sedan. At the heart of the museum is the National Historical collection, which is home to more than 200,000 objects which represent Australia's history and cultural heritage.
Located just southwest of the CBD, the museum can be reached via Lawson Crescent. ACTION buses operate regular services to the National Museum of Australia on routes 7 and 7a.
