Kim McKay, Building a Better Museum, Australian Museum, 24 July 2019

Dear Colleagues,

I’m pleased to share with you NSW Minister for the Arts the Hon. Don Harwin’s announcement today that the Australian Museum will temporarily close to the public on Monday 19 August 2019 for approximately 12 months to enable our major $57.5m renovation, Project Discover, to commence. A copy of the media release is attached.

This is an important milestone in the project, allowing the AM to complete the major demolition and construction without affecting the visitor experience. It will also ensure we meet the timelines needed to host the global blockbuster Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh in early 2021.

Project Discover is the AM’s major building renovation which will significantly expand the AM’s public floor space and deliver a better visitor experience. Key elements include a major new touring exhibition hall, flexible gallery and educational spaces; as well as more public amenities, further enhancing the AM’s reputation.

While our public spaces will temporarily close, the work of the AM will continue to reach well beyond our physical walls. Many of our community and school outreach programs will continue, as will the important work of our scientists and researchers in the Australian Museum Research Institute, a global leader in scientific discovery and conservation.

Minister Harwin also announced that the popular annual exhibition Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year will this year be held at the Powerhouse Museum, opening 16 August with the Powerhouse remaining open until its staged closure begins on 1 July 2020. This is a fantastic outcome, ensuring Sydneysiders continue to have access to a major museum and this beautiful exhibition during our construction period. My thanks to MAAS Director & CEO Lisa Havilah and our MAAS colleagues for working with us to present this exhibition.

This is an exciting time for the AM team as we embark on this significant transformation. For more information about Project Discover please visit australianmuseum.net.au/project-discover.

Kind regards,

Kim McKay
Director & CEO
Australian Museum