Acmi

ACMI Melbourne Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) is Melbourne’s premier museum dedicated to the moving image, encompassing film, television, video games, and digital art. Located in Federation Square, ACMI serves as a dynamic cultural hub, offering immersive exhibitions, film screenings, workshops, and educational programs. Since its founding in 2002, ACMI has played a vital role in preserving and celebrating Australia’s screen culture while championing innovation and inclusivity. Whether you are a film buff, a family looking for interactive experiences, or a traveler exploring Melbourne’s historical sites, ACMI promises an engaging journey through the past, present, and future of the moving image (ACMI official site; WhichMuseum; Abbott Tours; Thrillophilia; Arts Review).

Colorful illuminated architectural light installation at ACMI Melbourne at night

Colorful illuminated arboreal art installation at ACMI in Melbourne, Australia at night

ACMI Arboria installation by Architects of Air in Melbourne

Colorful illuminated inflatable art installation in Melbourne at night

ACMI's Arboria installation by Architects of Air in Melbourne

Arboria by Architects of Air at ACMI Melbourne

Colorful illuminated spiraling indoor installation at ACMI Arboria in Melbourne

Origins and Evolution of ACMI
ACMI’s Role in Screen Culture
Community Engagement and Cultural Impact
Visiting Hours, Tickets, Location, and Accessibility
Major and Special Exhibitions
Events, Festivals, and Programs
Educational Initiatives
Amenities and Visitor Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning Your Visit
References

Origins and Evolution of ACMI

ACMI was established in 2002 as a cornerstone of the newly developed Federation Square, envisioned to revitalize Melbourne’s city center and create a vibrant cultural precinct. As Australia’s only national museum dedicated to the moving image, ACMI was tasked with collecting, preserving, and presenting Australia’s screen heritage while fostering innovation and public engagement. After a major redevelopment between 2019 and 2021, ACMI reopened with redesigned galleries, expanded digital infrastructure, and enhanced accessibility, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity and future-focused storytelling (ACMI official site; Abbott Tours; WhichMuseum).

ACMI’s Role in Screen Culture

ACMI stands apart as Australia’s sole national museum devoted exclusively to the moving image. Its permanent exhibition, The Story of the Moving Image, showcases the evolution of screen culture, from early cinema to contemporary digital art and video games. With over 300 artifacts and interactive installations, the exhibition offers visitors a hands-on exploration of visual storytelling’s history and impact (WhichMuseum). ACMI’s Blackmagic Design Media Preservation Lab, visible to visitors, highlights the institution’s dedication to conserving and digitizing screen heritage (ACMI Visual Story).

Community Engagement and Cultural Impact

ACMI’s influence extends beyond its walls, serving as a platform for diverse voices and creative expression. The center actively acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation, and integrates First Nations perspectives and works throughout its programming (ACMI official site). Notably, exhibitions like The Future & Other Fictions spotlight Indigenous artists and forward-thinking narratives (The Conversation). Educational outreach includes programs for schools, resources for teachers, and initiatives to foster media literacy and creativity among all ages (Creative Victoria). ACMI’s accessible design provides wheelchair access, sensory guides, and hearing assistance, ensuring an inclusive experience (Abbott Tours).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, Location, and Accessibility

Location: Federation Square, Melbourne CBD, Victoria, Australia.
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (last entry: 4:30 PM). Hours may vary on public holidays (ACMI official site).
Tickets:

Entry to the permanent exhibition is free.
Special exhibitions and events are ticketed; discounts are available for students, seniors, and groups.
Getting There:
Federation Square is accessible by trams, trains (Flinders Street Station), and buses.
Nearby parking includes Wilson Parking at Federation Square (Evendo).
Accessibility:
Wheelchair access, accessible toilets, hearing assistance, and sensory-friendly guides are available.
Contact ACMI for additional assistance.
Nearby Attractions:
Flinders Street Station, St Paul’s Cathedral, Yarra River precinct, and the National Gallery of Victoria are within walking distance.

Major and Special Exhibitions

The Story of the Moving Image

The Story of the Moving Image is ACMI’s permanent, interactive exhibition divided into five zones, tracing the development of film, television, video games, and digital media. Highlights include vintage cameras, costumes, and interactive green screen studios. Visitors receive “The Lens,” a device to collect digital content and access it post-visit (ACMI website).

The Future & Other Fictions (28 November 2024 – 27 April 2025)

This summer exhibition explores how screen culture shapes our visions of the future. Co-curated by Amanda Haskard and Liam Young, it features over 180 works from 19 creatives, including costumes from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, sets from Blade Runner 2049, and new commissions like Hannah Brontë’s Birth of Dawn. Interactive experiences include a text-based sci-fi adventure game and programs dedicated to Björk’s artistry (Arts Review; Secret Melbourne; Time Out Melbourne).
Tickets: $10–$22.50; discounts for concession holders. Purchase online at the ACMI tickets page.

Other Upcoming Exhibitions

Game Worlds (September 2025): An exploration of video game art and technology (ACMI Exhibitions).

Events, Festivals, and Programs

Cinematheque and Film Screenings

ACMI’s Cinemas host daily screenings, retrospectives, and festivals, including the Melbourne Cinémathèque—a leading film society presenting classic and experimental films. Membership options range from 3-week passes ($30.50–$36) to annual memberships ($174–$325) (ACMI Cinematheque).

Major Events and Festivals

Future of Arts, Culture & Technology Symposium (FACT): A leading symposium on AI, media, and creative innovation (FACT 2025; FACT 2025 Program PDF).
Live Performances: Multimedia shows such as Forest Swords Live blend music with visual art (Forest Swords Live).
Speedrun Weekend: Gaming tournaments and developer talks (Speedrun Weekend).
Thematic Exhibitions: “Light: Works from Tate’s Collection” runs from June 16–November 13, 2025 (Secret Melbourne).

Educational Initiatives

ACMI offers school and group programs aligned with the Australian curriculum, including guided tours and hands-on workshops. Professional development for educators is available via symposiums and themed workshops (ACMI Education).
On-Demand Learning: Virtual tours, recorded talks, and digital workshops are accessible online (ACMI On Demand).

Amenities and Visitor Services

Hero Café + Bar: Serves breakfast, lunch, and snacks (Mon–Fri 8:30 AM–4:30 PM, Sat & Sun 10:00 AM–4:30 PM).
ACMI Shop: Open daily, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM, with unique screen culture merchandise (ACMI Official).
Restrooms and Family Facilities: Accessible toilets, baby change, and family rest areas are available.
Visitor Services: Free Wi-Fi, information desks, wheelchair hire, and cloakroom services.

Accessibility

Entrances: Two step-free main entrances—Flinders Street (with ramp) and Federation Square (ACMI Plan Your Visit).
Lifts and Accessible Toilets: Available on all levels.
Sensory Guides: Downloadable visual stories, sensory maps, and relaxed visit options.
Hearing and Visual Assistance: Free hearing augmentation devices, audio-described tours, and Auslan-interpreted events.
Assistance Animals: Welcome throughout ACMI.
Transport and Parking: Accessible via public transport and Federation Square car park (What’s On Melbourne).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are ACMI’s visiting hours?
A: Daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Closed Christmas Day.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Permanent exhibition is free; special exhibitions and events are ticketed (concessions available).

Q: Is ACMI accessible?
A: Yes—wheelchair access, sensory guides, accessible toilets, and hearing support are provided.

Q: How do I get there?
A: Federation Square is accessible via public transit (Flinders Street Station, tram, bus); limited parking nearby.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, including tactile and Auslan-interpreted options—check the ACMI website for details.

Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: Weekdays, especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays, are less crowded.

Planning Your Visit

Check the ACMI website for the latest exhibition and ticket information.
Book tickets online for popular exhibitions to avoid disappointment.
Download the Audiala app for guided tours and exclusive content.
Follow ACMI on social media for updates on exhibitions and events.
Consider combining your visit with nearby attractions, such as the National Gallery of Victoria and Yarra River walks.