The National Historical Collection is the National Museum of Australia’s core collection of Australian history. This rich and diverse collection of Australian historical material is held in trust for the nation.

The Museum researches, collects and represents three inter-related fields:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories
• Australian history and society since 1788
• People’s interaction with the Australian environment.

The National Historical Collection contains one of the world’s largest collections of bark paintings and the collection of the former Australian Institute of Anatomy, including the racehorse Phar Lap’s heart.

The collection also features an assortment of historical vehicles, material related to Australian politics and politicians, over 300 convict tokens, and an extensive collection of Aboriginal breastplates.

Admission & Opening Hours

Open 7 days 9am – 5pm (Closed Christmas Day)