Established in December 2022, Museums of History NSW brings together the historic houses, museums and collections previously in the care of Sydney Living Museums with the vast archives and records in the NSW State Archives Collection.

As custodians and storytellers, we are committed to preserving and presenting NSW’s unique history. Our places and collections, including the State Archives Collection, comprise some of the most significant historical material in the country. With this as our foundation, we bring history to life through diverse voices and viewpoints, supporting audiences of all backgrounds to gain fresh perspectives on our past.

We are committed to providing greater access to our places and collections through research and creative programming, and to building deep and enduring relationships with First Nations people and communities. With truth-telling and respect at the core of our approach, we strive to ensure our work recognises the complex and contested histories of our places and collections and supports constructive dialogue and debate about our future.

Museums of History NSW is a state cultural institution, established under the Museums of History NSW Act 2022. It is an agency of the NSW Department of Enterprise, Investment and Trade (DEIT).

The facade of the Hyde Park Barracks featuring 'Love that dares', a projected artwork by Jacqui North.

Year in review 2023

Our first year as Museums of History NSW has been a momentous one. Here are some highlights

A visitor listening to audio clips as part of the Unrealised Sydney exhibition at the Museum of Sydney

Contact us

How can we help? Contact details for head office, media, venue hire, museums and reading rooms

Group portrait of the new MHNSW Board, with (L-R): Sharon Veale, Professor Kirsten McKenzie, Professor John Maynard, Anton Enus, Penelope Seidler AM LFRAIA, Mary O’Kane AC (Chair, seated), Loretta Di Mento (Deputy Chair, standing) Dylan Mooney and Chris McDiven AM.

Our people

To present varied and rich perspectives on history, we have a diverse and dedicated team

Staff at State Records, Kingswood NSW

Policies & plans

We have a range of policies, reports, frameworks and plans that document and guide our work

Sydney Living Museums Horticulturalist Tristan Harman pruning the Begonia "chivalry" in the courtyard at Vaucluse House

Work with us

Thank you for your interest in a role with Museums of History NSW