The Australian Museum is located in Sydney, the country’s largest city, and is best known for its archaeological and natural history collections. It also conducts various research projects, with a special focus on the history and culture of Australia’s indigenous population. There are exhibits dedicated to Australia’s animals, including insects, mammals, and ocean life. Educational displays offer information about fossils and minerals as well as interactive tools for learning more about the history and culture of Australia and other parts of the world, including the Pacific Rim and ancient Egypt. The Australian Museum is open to visitors every day except the Christmas holiday, with group rates and reduced or free admission for some groups, including children and seniors.
Visitors to the Australian Museum can view more than 16 million specimens in the various exhibits, including plant and animal fossils, ancient cultural objects such as tools and weapons, and minerals. Some of the museum’s exhibits focus on the country’s animals, most of which are not found anywhere else in the world. There also is an array of cultural exhibits that offer opportunities to learn more about ancient cultures both in Australia and in other parts of the world. In addition to its regular collections, the Australian Museum also features special rotating exhibits. Those planning to visit the facility can get more information about these offerings on the museum’s website or by phone.
The Australian Museum is well known for its educational programs. It has outreach programs for schools and other educational facilities in the local area as well as special events exclusively for students and teachers. The museum also sponsors design competitions and learning opportunities for children less than five years. Environmental education is also a focus, with programs focusing on renewable energy, natural resource overuse, and the impact of introduced or non-native species.
Those interested in visiting the museum can do so on any day of the year except Australian Christmas, and the hours are from 9 am to 5 pm local time. Public transportation is available as well as parking areas for cars and facilities for those with disabilities. Floor maps of the Australian Museum are available to download online and can also be found in the admission area. Food can be purchased inside the museum, or patrons can bring a picnic to eat in one of the neighboring parks. It is permissible to leave the museum and return again on the same day with a valid ticket stub.