Whether you're new to Australia or just moved to a new city, there's no better way to get a feel for the local vibe than by exploring the art scene. From cutting-edge contemporary galleries to landmark museums, Australia offers many creative spaces featuring homegrown talent worth visiting.
This guide takes you through the top galleries and museums around the country. We’ll start with the most iconic institutions and then break things down by state and territory, so no matter where you are, you’ll find a local spot to explore.
If you’re keen to get straight to the good stuff, these are the galleries and museums that put Australian art on the map. Whether it's for their architecture, iconic collections, or next-level exhibitions, these spots are the ones people travel for. Think of this as your Aussie art hit list.
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Right on Sydney’s iconic Harbour, the MCA is a go-to for lovers of contemporary Australian art. It features a huge collection of work from First Nations artists, as well as major international exhibitions. With interactive installations, talks, workshops and free entry, it’s both high-impact and welcoming.
Event to know: Primavera, the gallery’s annual showcase of artists under 35, always brings fresh ideas and bold energy.
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If you thought Melbourne’s ACCA buildings are striking, their exhibitions are even more striking. The space champions experimental and thought-provoking works, often tackling big themes through installations and performance.
Keep an eye on: The ACCA Melbourne runs a full program of events each year.
Australia’s full of creative corners, and you don’t have to be in a capital city to find them. From buzzing galleries in the middle of town to hidden gems out in the regions, there’s something to discover wherever you are. So if you’re up for a bit of a wander (or just want to know what’s nearby), here’s a state-by-state guide to the best spots for soaking up some Aussie art.
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Right in the heart of Sydney, this much-loved gallery is a great mix of the old and the new. You’ll find everything from classic Aussie works to bold international exhibitions. The newer Sydney Modern building adds a whole extra layer, with airy gallery spaces, rooftop views and a dedicated space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.
It’s free to visit and always buzzing with something new. Think late-night openings, free tours and fresh exhibitions throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The Archibald Prize, one of Australia’s favourite portrait competitions. It’s always full of personality and a bit of friendly controversy.
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Out in Sydney’s west, Campbelltown Arts Centre is a local gem that punches well above its weight. It’s known for its creative mix of art, performance, music and community stories. The focus here is on First Nations and multicultural voices, with exhibitions that often feel personal, powerful and totally original. There’s also a peaceful sculpture garden, a lovely café and loads of events and workshops to dip into.
Worth a look: Their artist residencies and community-led projects. This is where some of the most exciting work is happening.
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If you love your art big, bold, and a bit unexpected, GOMA is a must. Sitting on Brisbane’s South Bank, this contemporary space is known for its immersive exhibitions, large-scale installations and major international shows. It’s part of the QAGOMA duo (with the more traditional Queensland Art Gallery right next door), so you can easily wander between both in a single visit.
GOMA often features cutting-edge video works, sculpture, photography and interactive pieces that make it a favourite for all ages.
Hot tip: Keep an eye out for the Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, a major exhibition that showcases some of the most exciting work from across the region.
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Small but mighty, Cairns Art Gallery is right in the heart of tropical Cairns and has a strong focus on local stories. It regularly features exhibitions from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, alongside national touring shows and contemporary pieces. The heritage-listed building adds to its charm, and the gallery shop is great for picking up unique gifts and art books.
Worth a stop: If you’re exploring Far North Queensland, this is the perfect cultural pit stop between reef trips and rainforest walks.
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Right in the heart of Perth’s Cultural Centre, this gallery showcases a solid mix of West Australian talent and touring international shows. It’s a great spot to get a feel for the local art scene, showcasing a range of work from painting and sculpture to digital and street-inspired works.
One of the highlights? Wander through the rooftop sculpture walk with a coffee and enjoy the view. The gallery also runs a schedule of workshops, talks and community events, so there’s always something happening.
Annual pick: West Australian Pulse, a brilliant, fresh exhibition of final-year high school art. It’s packed with creativity and gives a glimpse into the next generation of artists.
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This Adelaide favourite is one of the most visited galleries in the country, and for good reason. It boasts an impressive collection of Australian art, as well as international works that span centuries. The building itself is beautiful, and the way they blend historical pieces with contemporary art feels seamless. Whether you’re into classic oil paintings or modern installations, there’s something here to draw you in.
Look forward to: The Adelaide Biennial of Australian Art, held every two years as part of the Adelaide Festival. It’s a must for catching big names and exciting new voices.
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MONA is... an experience. It’s part underground bunker, part immersive art trip, and entirely unlike any other gallery in Australia. Known for being dark, bold, and occasionally controversial, it’s packed with installations that are weird, wonderful and sometimes a little confronting, in the best way. Even the ferry ride to the museum is part of the adventure.
Festival alert: Dark Mofo is MONA’s annual winter festival, full of art, fire, music and wild public events. Think night-time feasts, giant installations and a good dose of the unexpected.
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This waterfront gallery in Darwin is a great intro to the culture, art and history of the Top End. The collection has a strong focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, featuring artists across the Territory and beyond. It’s also home to the famous Cyclone Tracy exhibition and some stunning natural history displays.
Must-see: The Telstra NATSIAA (National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards), Australia’s longest-running Indigenous art award. Held annually, it’s a powerful showcase of talent and storytelling.
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The NGA is home to some of the country’s most iconic artworks, including Jackson Pollock’s Blue Poles, which caused quite a stir when it was first bought. The collection spans everything from early colonial art to contemporary First Nations works, and the building itself is also worth a look. There’s always a major exhibition or touring show on, plus free permanent displays to explore.
Spotlight on: The National Indigenous Art Triennial, a major exhibition celebrating leading First Nations artists. It’s a powerful and beautifully curated look at stories from across the country.
Australian art is bold, diverse and rooted in deep stories. Whether you’re wandering through a major museum or stumbling upon a local gallery in your new neighbourhood, there’s always something to discover and connect with. Every state and territory brings its own vibe and voice, so no matter where you land, you’ll find creative sparks waiting to be explored.
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