In 1993, Molly Clark visited the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame in Longreach. There she was inspired to create a similar space celebrating the extraordinary women who have shaped the face of Central Australia, both past and present.
The Women's Museum of Australia is a place to be inspired and should be included in your touring plans for Alice Springs. The museum celebrates the achievements of women. Detailing how their courage, determination, and perseverance have contributed to the development of Australia.
Exhibitions feature pioneering women, Australian women first in their fields (politics, sport, science, and the arts) and stories from new migrants. Located in the Alice Springs Old Gaol, this museum is a must if you are to truly understand life in the outback.
The Women’s Museum of Australia is accessible on foot from the centre of Alice Springs town, close to the Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility. Combining the two attractions makes for a great day of sightseeing and delving into history in Alice Springs.
You’ll receive a warm welcome from the museum’s well-informed volunteers and are then free to delve into the six permanent exhibitions. Each one focuses on a different aspect of the achievements of women in Australian history.
Most of the buildings are wheelchair accessible and the souvenir shop offers locally made products.
The museum is also responsible for the growth of the fascinating HerStory, a physical archive containing files on over 1,500 influential women first in their field. Many are now available online and make for inspiring reading.
A visit to the Old Gaol, or Her Majesty’s Gaol and Labour Prison Alice Springs, offers a chance to learn about life in the gaol and its association with the community. Visitors can explore the old buildings and listen to reflections from those who worked here, visited, were inmates, or fought to save the heritage-listed buildings. There are many fascinating stories unveiled here!
With over 2,500 objects and plenty to read throughout the exhibition, you should allow at least an hour or two for your visit.
The Women’s Museum of Australia is open Monday to Friday throughout the year.
You will find the Women’s Museum of Australia in the Old Gaol of Alice Springs, right in the heart of the Heritage Precinct.
The Women's Museum of Australia is located in Alice Springs, Northern Territory. To get there, you can drive from the Alice Springs town centre, which is approximately 2 kilometres (1.2 miles) away, making for a short 5-minute drive. The museum is situated on Stuart Terrace, within the Old Alice Springs Gaol grounds. Public transportation options, such as local buses, can also provide access to the museum, with stops conveniently located nearby. Signage and maps are available to guide visitors to the museum.
At the Women's Museum of Australia, visitors can explore various exhibits that celebrate women's contributions to Australia's history and society. Key exhibits include the "Women of the Outback" display, which highlights the pioneering women who shaped remote Australian communities. There are also exhibits on women's achievements in various fields such as politics, sports, arts, and sciences. The museum features personal stories, photographs, and artifacts that comprehensively examine women's diverse roles in shaping the nation. The Old Gaol section of the museum offers a historical perspective on the lives of women prisoners and staff.
Yes, the Women's Museum of Australia is worth visiting. It offers a unique and enriching experience, highlighting the significant contributions of women to Australian society and history. The museum's exhibits are informative and engaging, providing a deep dive into the achievements and stories of women from various backgrounds and fields. The inclusion of the Old Gaol adds a historical dimension that enhances the overall visit. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or social progress, the museum offers valuable insights and inspiration, making it a worthwhile destination for anyone visiting Alice Springs.
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