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Portrait of a man with a long grey beard, and wearing a khaki hat with sunglasses on top, standing to the left, with a distant view of the Sydney Opera House, people walking on a concourse, and a blue sky with white clouds.
Richard Painter has his photograph taken for the Landmarks gallery as he visits the Sydney Opera House

Vision

A recognised world-class museum exploring Australia’s past, illuminating the present, imagining the future.

Mission

To promote an understanding of Australia’s history and an awareness of future possibilities by:

  • developing, preserving and exhibiting a significant collection
  • taking a leadership role in research and scholarship
  • engaging and providing access for audiences nationally and internationally
  • delivering innovative programs.

Values

The National Museum of Australia operates with the highest ethical standards. It embraces truth and the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake and recognises the importance of aesthetic considerations. The Museum acknowledges the contributions of all Australians to the country’s historical development and accepts a fundamental requirement for fairness and equity in its activities. In operating within the framework established by such values, the National Museum of Australia:

  • develops and preserves the National Historical Collection
  • upholds scholarly and professional integrity
  • makes best use of its resources
  • values and is open-minded to new ideas
  • promotes continuous learning
  • strives to be innovative and creative
  • anticipates and responds to its diverse audience’s needs.
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