Canberra

History in Canberra

Canberra is home to some of Australia’s most fabulous interactive history resources. Check out some of the stimulating experiences offered through the links on this page.

ANU Classics Museum
Regular Monthly Tours: The Classics Museum offers regular guided tours of the collection. All are welcome but bookings are essential.

Group Tours: Group tours of the Classics Museum can be arranged. Volunteer guides can take your group on a general tour or we can tailor a tour to suit your interests.

For all tour bookings and enquiries please email Jill Greenwell or Susan Chessell or call 6273 2153.


National Archives of Australia
The National Archives makes records publicly available under the Archives Act 1983. Our vast Collection embodies the actions, decisions and interactions of the Australian Government. Explore the Learning, What’s on and Services content for ways you can access the collection.

Ian Maclean, Chief Archivist (1944–1968) and the National Archives


Old Parliament House
Old Parliament House offers an insight into Australia’s vibrant political past with the new focus as the Museum of Australian Democracy. Guided or self-tours give everyone the opportunity to explore this intriguing link to parliamentary life.

Gough Whitlam, Old Parliament House, Canberra, 1975.


National Gallery of Australia
The National Gallery of Australia strives to foster a greater understanding and knowledge of visual art and the creative process. It also works to increase sensitivity to cultural differences and cultural identity through the key learning areas of English, studies of society and environment, Aboriginal studies, Asian studies, and civics and citizenship.

National Gallery of Australia near completion, front view, c. late 1980


Australian National Museum
The National Museum of Australia explores the land, nation and people of Australia. The Museum celebrates Australian social history in a unique way by revealing the stories of ordinary and extraordinary Australians, promoting the exploration of knowledge and ideas and providing a dynamic forum for discussion and reflection.

National Museum of Australia


Australian War Memorial
The Australian War Memorial combines a shrine, a world-class museum, and an extensive archive. The Memorial’s purpose is to commemorate the sacrifice of those Australians who have died in war. Its mission is to assist Australians to remember, interpret and understand the Australian experience of war and its enduring impact on Australian society.

The Australian War Memorial, Canberra.