Western Australian Museum, Perth

The Western Australian Museum in Perth, established in 1891 as the Geological Museum in the old Perth gaol, is a key cultural institution in the state. With a focus initially centered on geological collections, the Museum quickly expanded its scope to include ethnological and biological exhibits by 1892. By 1897, it had officially transitioned to the Western Australian Museum and Art Gallery, marking a significant broadening of its cultural and scientific mandate.

Operating under the Museum Act 1969, the Museum is recognized as a statutory authority within the Culture and the Arts Portfolio, indicating its importance and responsibility in preserving the region's heritage. A significant reorganization in 1959 saw the botanical collection relocated to the new Herbarium, while the Museum and the Art Gallery emerged as distinct entities, each with its own focus and collection strategy.

Throughout its history, the Western Australian Museum has dedicated itself to collecting and researching in fields such as natural sciences, anthropology, archaeology, and the history of Western Australia. The 1960s and 1970s marked a period of expansion into new areas such as historic shipwrecks and Aboriginal site management, reflecting the Museum's evolving interests and the growing recognition of these areas' significance.

The Museum's location on James Street has been a constant and iconic part of its identity, serving as a central venue for both permanent and touring exhibitions. Among its many notable achievements, the Museum recently hosted the international blockbuster exhibition "A Day in Pompeii" from 25 May to 12 September, attracting over 110,000 visitors. This exhibition showcases the Museum's ability to connect with a broad audience, solidifying its role as a cultural cornerstone in Western Australia.