Previously known as the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences , the Powerhouse Museum was established in 1879 and is the largest museum group in Australia. It sits at the intersection of the arts, design, science and technology and plays a critical role in engaging communities with contemporary ideas and issues. It is custodian to more than half a million objects of national and international significance and is considered one of the finest and most diverse collections in Australia.

 

With four locations across Sydney, Australia, on both Dharug and Gadigal land, the Powerhouse Museum consists of  the Sydney Observatory, the Powerhouse Castle Hill Storehouse, Powerhouse Ultimo and Parahouse Parramata.

 

The objectives of the Powerhouse Museum include: 

• display of selected objects arranged to illustrate the industrial advance of civilisation and the development of inventions and manufactures;
• promotion of craftsmanship and artistic taste by illustrating the history and development of the applied arts;
• lectures, broadcasts, films, publications and other educational means;
• scientific research and any other means necessary or desirable for the development of the natural resources and manufacturing industries of New South Wales.