Museums Victoria has been recognised at the prestigious 2026 Australian Interior Design Awards, recently held in Sydney, with Our Wondrous Planet – the most expansive science and biodiversity gallery in Museums Victoria’s history winning the Installation Design category.

In recognising the work of the Museums Victoria in-house design and exhibitions team, the Award jury noted that the design and execution successfully created a wondrous, immersive environment that explained the richness of the world, transporting visitors to places they might otherwise never have the opportunity to experience. The jury also remarked on the exuberant exhibition’s use of immersive colour, resulting in an extraordinarily engaging experience.

Reflecting on the recognition, Lynley Crosswell, CEO & Director, Museums Victoria said, “This outstanding achievement celebrates the creativity, expertise and dedication of so many people across our organisation. It is a testament to the exceptional talent within our team, showcasing exactly what can be achieved when our experts come together with a shared commitment to excellence.”

Our Wondrous Planet was also awarded the Corian Design Award in the Commercial category last November. Together, these accolades underscore the strength of Victoria’s cultural institutions on the national stage.

Spanning 1,800 square metres across the first floor, the breathtaking multisensory gallery showcases four biomes: reef, rainforest, ice and soil, ecosystems that each play a major role in the vitality of the living, thriving global systems on our intricate planet.

Visitors of all ages experience the planet’s interconnected systems through interactives and learn about the incredible biodiversity of natural environments around the world.  Soar through a lush rainforest canopy, traverse the globe on swirling atmospheric currents, connect to root networks under the soil and come face to face with beautiful creatures preserved in time.

Rare State Collections, story-led multimedia and global First Peoples knowledge combine to envelop audiences in the living wonder of global biodiversity in Our Wondrous Planet. By experiencing life on Earth in all its glory, visitors will leave this new permanent gallery empowered to nurture our planet for generations to come.

The multi-award-winning exhibition has welcomed more than 659,773 visitors since opening in September 2025, with many naming it as their favourite gallery experience.

With the Victorian school holidays beginning this Saturday 27 June, there has never been a better time to step inside Our Wondrous Planet. Across the two-week winter break, families can soar through the rainforest canopy, journey across the globe and come face to face with the living wonders of our planet; a warm, awe-inspiring escape from the cold, all under one roof. Best of all, this unforgettable family adventure is free with Museum entry.

For further information, visit the Melbourne Museum website here.

Our Wondrous Planet
Location: Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street Carlton
Tickets: on sale at Melbourne Museum and online here