So as museum members I have to say this has been very disappointing to visit (as a family). The museum is too small and the collection either non-existent or too off-topic. I think they really don't have a good handle on what they are meant to be - but as a country of migrants, there should be so many more histories and stories to tell. The museum itself is clearly well maintained (given it's historic value), but the collection didn't engage our kids; and was too limited / scattered and variable detail to satisfy adults. This museum could almost be a museum of the history of Australia (including white pre-settlement) - and whilst it tries to do some of this, it doesn't do it justice. It feels like a once loved library that has become near deserted as people moved digital... and their attempts to move with the people have missed the mark. My guess is this is mostly used as a school history excursion location - and they've forgotten they should also be servicing the wider community. I would be more annoyed if we had to pay the $15 per person; given its the same cost as Melbourne Museum (with perhaps 0.1% of the content)!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

I thought it was pretty interesting. Hadn't visited it for nearly 20 years, and I can say that it has changed dramatically since then. It is much more interactive than it used to be, with touch screens and numerous video screens displaying migrant stories and other historical events. I would suggest that if you want to take most of it in, you need to give yourself a good two hours. Most of it is located on the first and second floors. The ground floor has a lounge / library type area where you can have a seat and read the various books they have there. Just my opinion, but I don't think the museum is really that interesting of a place for kids - it's a bit more adult oriented. I'm glad this museum is in the process of changing certain exhibits though, especially language that relates to our First Nations peoples. Some of the racist language and policies of the past really shocked and appalled me actually. I get that it needs to be remembered, but I did find it a bit confronting in parts. I didn't take many photos, but have attached a few to show the amazing architecture inside.

Visited the Immigration Museum in April 2021 and was pleasantly surprised with the pure beauty of this place. I believe it is a hidden gem in Melbourne! From the beautiful architecture to the detailed artefacts and content rich information, I truly believe there is something for everyone at the museum. As a young adult with immigrant Italian grandparents, I felt connected to learn more about their journey to Australia. The museum provides so many interesting records and facts that I can directly relate back to my family and how I have come to live in this country. The ‘Becoming You’ exhibition was also a great addition and I loved learning about other individual’s life experiences. It was like walking in their shoes for a couple of minutes. Definitely recommend this place for anyone who likes reflecting back on their own experiences and are willing to learn others, and the history of Australian immigration.

Disappointing. I visited the museum 6 years ago and loved it. Not now. It’s been spoiled. The visitor is greeted by a pious, insulting sign commanding that they behave themselves. Many of the fascinating stories and exhibits have gone. There is a lot of political discourse of the Good Law/Bad Law type. Films of students talking about their mental health and swearing. A whole floor devoted to an “identity and diversity” exhibition, that didn’t fit at all - pointless post modern stuff. I went to this museum wanting to hear people’s stories - what they came from, how they travelled, how their lives were once they arrived in Australia. There was little of that. It’s sad that such a compelling story - immigration to Australia - has been mishandled. On the positive side, the staff were great and very kind to my children.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No

The main display starts with a short video on a loop and you then move into a gallery where a timeline from deep time, as the Aboriginals describe it, to the current year is displayed around the wall. The centre of the gallery has display cabinets containing various objects. There is a lot to read in this gallery and you can't help but be moved by the inhumanity of man. The second gallery is more interactive showing the harsh interviews and the dictation test used to keep Australia white only. I found some of the displays here poorly lit. The history of the building and its uses is also shown here. The second floor challenges our prejudices further and asks questions about our daily group associations. All in all an interesting visit.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Gone so woke from the original displays where it was all about migrants from all times...you could find info by typing in people's names and it would tell you about when they arrived and their mode of transport. Ships etc. Political now...Australia 'did' have a White Australia policy but, abolished over 60 years ago. New beginnings... with early migrants the massive post- war migration and continuing migration today not enough emphasis is put on the new lives people make or made for themselves after landing in Australia with just suitcases and memories, any mementos of their previous lives had to be left behind....what a huge decision....how brave migrants are! Lift your game and talk to 'people' about what really happens.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

I visited the museum because so far the museums I visited in Perth and Melbourne were very good. As a first generation of emigrants in US, I want to learn about Australia’s immigration history and policies. I was expecting to hear people’s stories - what they came from, how they travelled, how their lives were once they arrived in Australia. It starts with how the emigrants got to Australia which was interesting. There were some of the fascinating stories in exhibitions but they have more of political discourse and films of students talking about their mental health and swearing. A whole floor devoted to an “identity and diversity” exhibition.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

As a tourist in Melbourne wanting to explore the history of Australia as a country and how it became one of the most diverse countries in the world, this museum is the right place to be at. The museum offers a brilliant insight to the history of immigrants and how it all began. There are amazing arts at display, a beautiful historical screening depicting the stories of millions of immigrants during the world war or post war and modern times. The museum offers mind blowing resemblance of many cultures that were brought in Australia by the immigrants and how it shaped the Australia we all know of today. A must place for explorers and curious minds.

The history of the population influx to Australia after the arrival of the first fleet. Its different stages due to European overcrowding, world conflicts and disasters, famine, ethnic discrimination. Importantly it acknowledged that Australia was not empty and that its first nations people did have set groups with their own territory. They were not nomadic and had very strong attachment to their tribal lands. It also acknowledged the different stages of racism as we transitioned to the multicultural population we are and will continue to be.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A bit further out from other city attractions but a really worthwhile visit. If you show your student card, you get in for free! Adult tickets were $15 when we went there. The first floor exhibition called 'Leaving Home' was particularly moving and the follow on display outlines the history of Melbourne and Victoria with a strong focus on migration and indigenous history. This information was not taught to me when I was in school so I'm so glad there is a place where I can go to educate myself. A primary school group was there when we went so I'm glad the curriculum has changed. Deeply impactful experience. Highly recommend.

Explores the histories, stories and contemporary issues of Victoria's diverse communities, and what connects us all as humans. It is Educational, interesting & informative. We enjoyed informative exhibits & friendly knowledgeable staff. Easy access to all levels. Public transport is available right at the front door. It’s majorly on the immigration history of Australia. Australia is mostly immigrants & a mix of people arriving from different countries. It’s in the Old custom building in flinders street hosting the culture and science of Victoria. It’s a nice time spent . You could easily spend an hour or two here.

A beautiful building. A little difficult to navigate and some exhibits were closed. However, there's no doubt that the stories of refugees and immigrants were communicated beautifully and it was very enjoyable to read and view many of the images, sounds, and day-to-day items etc that were part of the life of the immigrants to this country. As per our open and accepting Australian culture, the museum willingly shares some of our more racist pasts and how we've now moved on from that. Well done, absolutely recommended.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

The museum was very well laid out and provided a great insight into the history of immigration to Australia. The interactive exhibits were especially interesting, as they provided an opportunity to engage with the stories of the many diverse people who have made up Australia’s multicultural society. The museum also provided a great opportunity to learn more about the challenges and opportunities faced by those who have emigrated to Australia and the ways in which our nation has benefited from their presence.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

The building was beautiful from the outside as well as from within but there were a lot of empty spaces (probably from setting up the next event so check the website ahead of time before visiting) and interactive art that unfortunately weren't working on the time of visit. The art, narrative and amount of history in this museum was great, with a good balance of reading as well as video and audio displays. Definitely need about a 2 hour for a comfortable pace and 3.5 hours if you plan on seeing everything, although some could be skimmed depending on your interest in other cultures.

I simply love this museum! I got very touched and emotional in my first visit, and every time I go back I feel warm, seen and understood. Everything is very well done and captures so well the different feelings and stories of immigrants. Every immigrant should visit it to feel this sense of belonging and every Australian should also visit it to better understand the life of so many immigrants that we have in Australia. PS: the guided tour is really good
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Significant part of the museum is dedicated to The White Australia policy and how racist the country was in the early days. Which is fine, it's part of our history, but it's not balanced enough. We have had plenty of success stories with migrants from all over the world. Show more of this... Celebrate how the migrants have improved the country and how diverse the population is now. The main hall is empty, although it makes for a cool photo... Opportunity to have displays and other pieces would be a better use of the hall.

Australia has a long history of Immigration and this museum has some great exhibits which showcase why people have moved to this country and how their journey’s have been and have shaped the culture of Australia as a nation. As many as 9 Million people have immigrated to Australia since 1788 when the first fleet arrived in Sydney. Definitely worth checking if you are history buff and want to know more about Immigration to Australia. It’s located in a beautiful building which use to be a customs house till 1960’s.

A small place with two floors, the content is partly interesting, but the impressive exhibits such as the ship, the room, the table, etc. that are published in pictures on Google and on the website are no longer displayed... it is recommended to check before arriving or on the spot, because that way it is simply not worth $15. There are plenty of places I've been to for free that are worth paying for, this museum nation.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

As the name says, it's mainly on the immigration history of Australia. Interesting to know how Australia is mostly immigrants in the current day and life. As you walk around Australian streets , it's very evident that , Australia is a mix of multiple cultures and people from different races. I loved the video made by different people who migrate to Australia and how they are making Australia their homes.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Too busy pushing an agenda to document history fully or accurately. Come here if you want an anti-white story about the difficulties others have faced coming and living here. Next to nothing about how they got here, general movements of people, why they came, the impact they had once here, migrating patterns in Australia, migrant communities, the perils faved by the first colonists, etc...
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Great museum with the focus on the immigration; the people that arrived, who they were, how they're arrived, and when. They also go through the discrimination, the British policy making and the following Australian policies. They have so many artifacts from history and so much information. They also have some information about the customs house itself. I love that the place isn't too big, it's perfect size for the job. It's a great museum and I highly recommend it!

To be honest, this was a little disappointing. Yes, the exhibitions were interesting. If you can avoid the school groups but they no longer have search for a family member facility which is not stated on the website. If I had known, I probably wouldn't have gone. Searches are all done online. It's like a rabbit warren, lots of different rooms, but the directions are not clear.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Nice little museum that discusses immigration to Australia. Worth the visit especially the short film just as you enter in Level 1. Frankly the exhibits were a bit underwhelming - from older reviews looks like this place has been revamped. In comparison the immigration section at the Maritime Museum in Sydney is much better. FYI, the entry fee at $15 is a bit pricey though for such a small place.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

We were let down by this museum. We felt it left out the huge story of the European immigrants and their immense contribution to Melbourne. There is so much room to display the multitude of stories, but lots of empty space instead. We enjoyed all the other immigration stories and the diversity of our community now. Not the place for trans identity.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Was a good experience a unique insight into our country’s history and development. A lot of interactive displays but i feel I personally would have learnt more and had a better understanding with a guided tour. The building it self is something to be admired from an architectural and craftsmanship’s view point. It might be/ I’m sure it is the bogan in me but I didn’t get the Art exhibition. Should be on the school curriculum.

I was pleasantly surprised here by the depth of the information provided. I personally like it when there is a lot to learn either by reading or audio guide, and that was exactly the case here. Even temporary exhibitions about finding yourself for young people were so refreshing, haven't seen anything like it yet. Very nice job. We went in to check it out quickly and spent two hours there and honestly wish we had more time.

The Immigration Museum was interesting, and the museum spans over three floors. We only found the second floor to really talk about the immigration to Australia over the last few hundred years, with the other two floors have less interesting exhibits, in our opinion. Some of the immigration stories were interesting and we enjoyed the historical accounts. Unfortunately the top floor just wasn't what we were expecting.

I ventured across Immigration Museum in Flinders Street across from Yarra River and it was an emotional experience reading through the immigration experience in Australia to modern times. The museum houses 3 levels of exhibitions focused around Australian historical records of immigration progression and living experiences. The stories were very moving and poignant, not to mention very enriching. Highly recommended!

This museum about Immigration to Australia is sort of interesting. The topic is certainly very topical. I particularly enjoyed the opportunity to pretend to accept or decline immigrants. Surprisingly, there is a charge to get in. The museum has a definite liberal bias but does do a good job of showing the complexity of the issue.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

We got tickets at the door, and even though it was a Saturday but the museum was not crowded so we could leisurely stroll throughout and read on the detailed descriptions. Definitely nice to be in when it is quiet. It is not a big museum so you won’t need more than 1-2 hours depending on how much details you want to consume.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

The Immigration Museum in Melbourne is a personal favorite. It's incredibly moving and filled with amazing stories from resilient individuals. The beautiful art pieces enhance the experience, and the opportunity to explore your family heritage adds an extra layer of significance. Highly recommended for a meaningful visit.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A great educational and inspiring place! I’ve been to “Identity: yours, mine, ours ” exhibition in Level 2 and it was truly creative in approaching the whole identity issue through the lens of personal stories and an informative review of Australia’s history and its struggle with identity! The museum also hosts an exhibition about Ramadan - the holy month for Muslim! I found it educational and beautiful!

I visited when they had the LOVE exhibition. The exhibition itself was very touching and very immersive with some very heartwarming stories as well as ones that made me tear up. Also many good photo opportunities with the cool neon signs that have up for the exhibit. I have not visited this museum whilst it was not showcasing this exhibition so I cannot give valid feedback on that aspect of it.

What a wonderful experience this was. It was a beautiful old building with so much history. The story of early settlers on the land of our ancestors the Wurundjeri people were so beautifully portrayed. Visiting this place has increased my respect for this beautiful land. Wonderful staff who were super friendly and served with a smile. Must visit in Melbourne

If you want to learn how immigration in Australia started and continued, this is the place to visit. The exposition provides necessary information, invites you to think differently about others and touches subjects about humans and the believes they have. At the day of my visit some artistic photos illustrate the tattoo culture mainly in Samoa and Japan.

Very interesting place to visit. Self guided tour which takes approx 90 mins to complete. I learned so much more about the first people arriving to Australia by ship and what the true Australians went thru, and all from the museum. Definitely recommend a visit. Sorry photos are limited but I wasnt able to take photos whilst inside.

Some excellent information and displays of migration from early European settlement onwards. Useful for school project. A lot of empty space that seems to be being used for other purposes than bringing our migration stories to life.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

This museum is for serious history buffs or those interested in knowing detailed historical information about the making and becoming of Australia. Worth visiting only if you are an avid historian or historical fact gatherer.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

It’s a great way to honour all those that have come along way to build Australia into its current form. From early settlers to current immigration. It’s great to see the updates and stories of newer immigrants being told.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Several excellent galleries tell the story of immigration to Australia and aboriginal displays and insights into the impact on those first people's. It was really interesting to see how people from different parts of the world have arrived for all different reasons, including work and as refugees.

Really great exhibit on "love". Rest of the museum was also very interesting. Good to see they didn't try to gloss over Australia's complicated history with immigration (anti-Chinese policies, dictation tests, etc.). Really interesting and a fairly inexpensive way to spend a morning or afternoon.

Very disappointing. Lovely old building that seemed largely empty. Seemed a bit woke too. I was hoping for more factual history, whether palatable by today's standards or not. Not worth the $15 entry fee
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

"You come to Australia, you want to see white people" "Congratulations son, you are the only one in our family approved for a visa" Immersive "Gaijin seat" experience... One of the absolute best museums.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Lovely gentlemen at the ticke/info desk at the entrance explaining what's goingvon at the museum at the monent and recommending what to see. Nice place. My 12 year daughter enjoyed very much too.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Spent close to two hours in the Love exhibit. It is amazing! So well done and touching, and showcases a wide variety of people and relationships. I rarely participate in audio tours, but I really enjoyed this one, both for the music and the spoken stories.

The Immigration Museum has a large collection about Melbourne's history. However, when I visited here I found a lot of space unused in the old Customs Building.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Fascinating ! The building itself (Customs House) is historical and beautiful. Staff were very helpful and friendly. There's a lift to cover the 3 levels too .
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Interesting place to spend a couple hours - i personally liked that the top floor explores the individual stories of recent migrants and contemporary race relations, something we should all be more comfortable discussing in the current climate

Educational, interesting & heartbreaking all in the one visit. We enjoyed the space, informative exhibits & friendly knowledgeable staff. Easy access to all levels and also public transport right at the front door. Definitely coming back.

Interesting museum to learn about some of Australia's immigration history. The old customs house is a spectacular building including the long room.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

This was a really interesting museum to visit, a lot of reading and a lot to take in but some great interactive activities for adults and kids.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Great eye-opening and captivating museum. One exhibit had me in tears. Very well done and the staff were so friendly and knowledgeable. A wonderful experience, I would recommend this to anyone regardless of where you come from.

Overlooked by many, but worth the short walk from Flinders Street Station. Allow 2 hours to take in the information supplied by both static interactive and film clips. A good insight into such an important subject. More

Great collection of artifacts, anecdotes and important events forming the Australia we know today. Even the 8-year old enjoyed it
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A bit underwhelming and run down for the $15 entry fee. As others have said, would have loved to have seen more of a celebration of immigrants and more inclusion of First Nations stories.

It was an interesting learning experience. The staff at desk were helpful. It's free for students!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

It s a good place for kids over 8 y o. Very specious and some interesting prospective shared.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
30–60 min
Reservation recommended
No

Great time, experience and learning to better understand that "not much has changed about the reasons about the "why" people around the world keeps looking for a better future.

Gorgeous historic building. Had a wonderful chat with one of the historians about Melbourne history and development. Highly recommend checking out the echo in the long room!

Great museum and provides great information about immigrants and Australian immigration policies, very perfectly placed artefacts and free tickets for students, go for it.

We had the pleasure of being party of a Corporate Christmas Party last year. Amazing venue. Staff were kind and helpful. Food looked delicious. Beautiful atmosphere.

Fabulous exhibitions tracing Australia's Migration History. Super interesting, educational and well worth the visit. More

nice and vintage，recommend can change theme more frequent
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

A great museum. I recently attended the African music and cultural festival there.
Visited on…
More

A lot to see, and some great exhibits. Worth seeing!
Visited on
Weekend…
More

Well worth a visit, really interesting few hours.
Visited on
Weekday…
More

must visit so many cool things there!!!
Visited on
Weekday…
More

Was an enjoyable experience to learn about history

Beautiful stories, had a very memorable time.

AMAZING. Every city should have one of these…