The Museum of Chinese in Australia has officially opened in Sydney’s iconic Chinatown today, supported by the Albanese Government.

The Albanese Government is supporting 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, with $2.6 million in funding.

The museum is located within the heritage listed former Haymarket Library, a building with more than 180 years of history and showcases the historical and cultural ties of the Australia Chinese community dating back to the Cantonese traders in the 1920s.

Adapting the three-storey building at Haymarket, the museum will feature an archive, library and include the transformation of former reading rooms into exhibition galleries and public program spaces.

The project has also been supported by the City of Sydney, NSW Government and generous contributions from the Chinese Australian community.

As communities across Australia celebrate Chinese New Year and welcome the Year of the Horse, the official opening of the Museum of Chinese in Australia reflects the Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening multicultural Australia and preserving the stories that shape our national identity.

The museum is a permanent invitation to all Australians to learn about the significant role the Chinese community has played in Australia.

The Albanese Government is focussed on investing in community infrastructure which preserves and celebrates our history and builds community.

Quotes attributable to Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese

“The Chinese Australian community is a powerful example of how when people come to our nation seeking a better life for themselves, they make this a better country for all of us.

“This museum will celebrate a vital thread through the history of our modern nation – the long and extraordinary story of Chinese people in Australia.   

“I can’t think of a better site for this museum than in Haymarket – a place synonymous with the Chinese-Australian story – or a more fitting time of year to open it.”

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Social Services Tanya Plibersek

“Labor understands that Australia’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths.

“The Museum of Chinese in Australia is a place to preserve the stories, struggles, and achievements of Chinese Australians, and to remind us of all the richness they bring to our shared history.

“It’s fantastic to see it open in Sydney’s Chinatown, a place where Chinese culture, hard work, and creativity have flourished for generations.”

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Multicultural Affairs Anne Aly

“The Museum of Chinese in Australia will stand as a cultural landmark in Sydney’s Chinatown as a place of connection reflection and celebration.”

“It shines a light on individuals and families whose stories of ambition, resilience and determination are central to Australia’s nation building journey.”

“These are stories worth remembering, because they deepen our understanding of who we are and strengthen the sense of belonging that underpins our multicultural success.”