The Migration Museum will temporarily close for a period of two years to undertake critical structural, and conservation works from 3 July 2026.

South Australia’s Migration Museum will temporarily close to the public to allow planned structural, accessibility and conservation works to be carried out on its historic buildings. 

The museum, which this year celebrates its 40th anniversary as the first museum of its kind in the world, will close for at least two years. 

Its state heritage-listed bluestone buildings, dating back to 1860 and 1889, require important upgrades and conservation works to ensure they can continue to house and share South Australia’s migration stories for future generations. 

All museum objects currently held at the Kintore Avenue site will be safely returned to the State History Collection before construction begins. 

In 2024, the State Government announced $6.3 million to support repairs to the heritage buildings. 

Alongside the building works, the History Trust of South Australia is seeking donations to support new exhibitions, programs and events that will help share more migration stories with more people in new ways. 

Background

Since the Migration Museum first opened, building codes and standards have evolved significantly. The buildings, constructed between 1860 and 1889, are among the oldest remaining in the city centre and now require substantial structural, conservation and accessibility upgrades. 

In 2024, the Malinauskas Government announced $6.305 million in funding for essential structural repairs to the heritage buildings of the Migration Museum. The structural repairs project is being managed as a major project through the Department for Infrastructure and Transport. 

This funding represents an important first phase. Further work will be required over time to ensure the Museum remains relevant, accessible and able to serve future generations. 

The Migration Museum has delivered high-quality education programs to generations of South Australians and remains a significant cultural and learning institution. The preservation and sharing of authentic migrant stories is more important than ever. 

To ensure the Migration Museum can deliver on its promise into the future, these essential structural, conservation and accessibility works must now be undertaken.

Queries

Please direct any questions to team@history.sa.gov.au or call (08) 8151 3200