Immigration Museum (Museums Victoria)

Interesting museum to learn about some of Australia's immigration history. The old customs house is a spectacular building including the long room.

I thought it was pretty interesting. Hadn't visited it for nearly 20 years, and I can say that it has changed dramatically since then. It is much more interactive than it used to be, with touch screens and numerous video screens displaying migrant stories and other historical events. I would suggest that if you want to take most of it in, you need to give yourself a good two hours. Most of it is located on the first and second floors. The ground floor has a lounge / library type area where you can have a seat and read the various books they have there. Just my opinion, but I don't think the museum is really that interesting of a place for kids - it's a bit more adult oriented. I'm glad this museum is in the process of changing certain exhibits though, especially language that relates to our First Nations peoples. Some of the racist language and policies of the past really shocked and appalled me actually. I get that it needs to be remembered, but I did find it a bit confronting in parts. I didn't take many photos, but have attached a few to show the amazing architecture inside.

I was pleasantly surprised here by the depth of the information provided. I personally like it when there is a lot to learn either by reading or audio guide, and that was exactly the case here. Even temporary exhibitions about finding yourself for young people were so refreshing, haven't seen anything like it yet. Very nice job. We went in to check it out quickly and spent two hours there and honestly wish we had more time.

You come to Australia

What a wonderful experience this was. It was a beautiful old building with so much history. The story of early settlers on the land of our ancestors the Wurundjeri people were so beautifully portrayed. Visiting this place has increased my respect for this beautiful land. Wonderful staff who were super friendly and served with a smile. Must visit in Melbourne

Educational, interesting & heartbreaking all in the one visit.We enjoyed the space, informative exhibits & friendly knowledgeable staff. Easy access to all levels and also public transport right at the front door. Definitely coming back.

The Immigration Museum has a large collection about Melbourne's history. However, when I visited here I found a lot of space unused in the old Customs Building.

As the name says, it's mainly on the immigration history of Australia. Interesting to know how Australia is mostly immigrants in the current day and life. As you walk around Australian streets , it's very evident that , Australia is a mix of multiple cultures and people from different races.I loved the video made by different people who migrate to Australia and how they are making Australia their homes.

A bit further out from other city attractions but a really worthwhile visit. If you show your student card, you get in for free! Adult tickets were $15 when we went there. The first floor exhibition called 'Leaving Home' was particularly moving and the follow on display outlines the history of Melbourne and Victoria with a strong focus on migration and indigenous history. This information was not taught to me when I was in school so I'm so glad there is a place where I can go to educate myself. A primary school group was there when we went so I'm glad the curriculum has changed. Deeply impactful experience. Highly recommend.

So as museum members I have to say this has been very disappointing to visit (as a family). The museum is too small and the collection either non-existent or too off-topic. I think they really don't have a good handle on what they are meant to be - but as a country of migrants, there should be so many more histories and stories to tell. The museum itself is clearly well maintained (given it's historic value), but the collection didn't engage our kids; and was too limited / scattered and variable detail to satisfy adults. This museum could almost be a museum of the history of Australia (including white pre-settlement) - and whilst it tries to do some of this, it doesn't do it justice. It feels like a once loved library that has become near deserted as people moved digital... and their attempts to move with the people have missed the mark. My guess is this is mostly used as a school history excursion location - and they've forgotten they should also be servicing the wider community. I would be more annoyed if we had to pay the $15 per person; given its the same cost as Melbourne Museum (with perhaps 0.1% of the content)!