Museum of Chinese in Australia Officially Opened in Sydney’s Chinatown
Umesh Dhakal
KNA- Canberra
The Museum of Chinese in Australia has been officially opened in Sydney’s iconic Chinatown, with support provided by the Albanese Government.
An investment of $2.6 million has been allocated for the establishment of the first Chinese-focused museum in New South Wales dedicated to preserving and presenting the history, heritage and contributions of Chinese Australians.
The museum has been housed within the heritage-listed former Haymarket Library, a building with more than 180 years of history. The three-storey site at Haymarket has been adapted to include an archive and research library, while former reading rooms have been transformed into exhibition galleries and public program spaces.
Historical and cultural ties between Australia and the Chinese community, dating back to early Cantonese traders, are being showcased through curated exhibitions and preserved collections.
Additional support for the project has been provided by the City of Sydney, the NSW Government and members of the Chinese Australian community.
The opening has coincided with nationwide celebrations of Chinese New Year and the welcoming of the Year of the Horse. The museum has been described as a permanent space where the significant role of the Chinese community in Australia’s development can be recognised and explored.
It has been stated by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese that the museum celebrates the long and extraordinary story of Chinese people in Australia, with the Haymarket location regarded as a fitting site given its strong historical connection to the Chinese-Australian community.
Minister for Social Services Tanya Plibersek has noted that Australia’s diversity is considered one of the nation’s greatest strengths and that the museum preserves the stories, struggles and achievements of Chinese Australians.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Anne Aly has stated that the museum will stand as a cultural landmark in Sydney’s Chinatown, providing a place for connection, reflection and celebration while highlighting stories central to Australia’s nation-building journey.
Source: Government of Australia-PM/ Media
