State Film Centre Of Victoria

State Film Centre of Victoria Visiting Guide: ACMI Melbourne Historical Site

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), situated at Federation Square in Melbourne, is a leading national museum dedicated to the celebration and exploration of screen culture in all its forms. Tracing its origins back to 1946 as the State Film Centre of Victoria, ACMI has evolved into a vibrant institution at the heart of Melbourne’s arts precinct. This comprehensive guide provides essential information for anyone planning a visit—covering ACMI’s rich history, its transition from the State Film Centre, practical visiting details, nearby attractions, accessibility, and travel tips to ensure an engaging and memorable experience. Whether you are a film enthusiast, a family seeking educational outings, or a curious tourist, ACMI offers an unparalleled window into the world of the moving image. (ACMI Official Site; Wikipedia: ACMI; Victoria Government: Arts, Culture and Heritage)

A Brief History of the State Film Centre and ACMI
Cultural Significance and Institutional Legacy
Visiting Hours and Ticketing Information
Accessibility and Visitor Facilities
Getting There and Travel Tips
Nearby Attractions
Exhibitions, Events, and Educational Programs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

A Brief History of the State Film Centre and ACMI

Founded in 1946, the State Film Centre of Victoria was one of Australia’s earliest institutions focused on collecting, preserving, and distributing films for educational and cultural outreach. Throughout the mid-20th century, it played a pivotal role in supporting local filmmakers and archiving significant works such as The Sentimental Bloke (1919) and On Our Selection (1920). By the late 20th century, it was instrumental in fostering Victoria’s screen community, supporting events like the Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF), and offering resources for academic and community initiatives.

In 2002, following a government-backed transformation, the institution was reimagined as the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) and relocated to the iconic Federation Square. This evolution expanded its focus beyond film to include television, videogames, digital art, and interactive media, positioning ACMI as a world-leading museum of screen culture (Wikipedia: ACMI).

Cultural Significance and Institutional Legacy

Championing Screen Culture

Today, ACMI is recognized as Australia’s national museum of the moving image, dedicated to celebrating, preserving, and interpreting screen culture in all its forms. It is home to the acclaimed permanent exhibition The Story of the Moving Image, which traces the evolution of film, television, and digital media, offering visitors an immersive and interactive journey through screen history.

Preserving Heritage and Collaboration

The ACMI Collection, originating from the State Film Centre’s archive, now encompasses over 250,000 items, including films, objects, ephemera, videogames, and time-based media art. This valuable resource is accessible through ACMI’s website and digital platforms, and is further enhanced by partnerships with national and international institutions such as the National Film and Sound Archive, MoMA, and Tate.

Community Engagement and Education

ACMI’s programming is inclusive and diverse, reflecting Melbourne’s multicultural identity and commitment to community engagement. From educational workshops aligned with the Victorian Curriculum to public talks, masterclasses, and major film festivals, ACMI fosters lifelong learning and cultural participation. Its acknowledgment of the Traditional Custodians of the land and integration of First Nations stories into exhibitions underscores its dedication to inclusive storytelling (Victoria Government: Arts, Culture and Heritage).

Visiting Hours and Ticketing Information

Opening Hours:
Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Christmas Day and Good Friday).
The ACMI Café + Bar opens weekdays from 8:30 AM.
Tickets:
General admission to permanent exhibitions is free.
Special exhibitions, screenings, and events may require tickets; prices and schedules are available on the ACMI Tickets Page.
Booking:
Advance online booking is recommended, particularly for special programs and festivals.

Accessibility and Visitor Facilities

Wheelchair Access: Ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms throughout the venue.
Hearing Assistance: Assistive listening devices and captioning available for many events.
Assistance Animals: Welcome throughout ACMI.
Additional Support: For specific needs, contact ACMI at +61 3 8663 2200 or visit the Accessibility Page.
Amenities:
- ACMI Café + Bar: Open for breakfast, lunch, and snacks.
- ACMI Shop: Unique screen-culture merchandise, books, and gifts.
- Cloakroom: Complimentary coat and bag check.
- Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the building.

Getting There and Travel Tips

Location:
Federation Square, Melbourne VIC 3000
By Public Transport:
- Train: Flinders Street Station is across the street.
- Tram: Multiple routes (1, 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67) serve Federation Square.
- Bus: Several lines stop nearby.
By Car:
- Limited parking at Federation Square and nearby CBD car parks.
- Public transport is recommended for convenience.
Travel Tips:
- Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
- Dress in layers due to Melbourne’s variable weather.
- Consider combining your visit with other Federation Square attractions.

Nearby Attractions

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV): Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum.
State Library of Victoria: Noted for its architecture and collections.
Royal Botanic Gardens: Ideal for relaxation post-visit.
Melbourne Town Hall and Yarra River Promenade: Accessible within a short walk or tram ride.
Federation Square: Regular public events, cafes, and outdoor spaces.

(Travel Unpacked: Melbourne Essential Info; TripZilla; Nomadic Matt)

Exhibitions, Events, and Educational Programs

Permanent Exhibition:
The Story of the Moving Image—interactive displays on the history and evolution of film, television, and digital media.
Temporary Exhibitions:
Regularly changing displays focusing on contemporary screen culture, digital art, and international cinema.
Film Screenings and Festivals:
Includes MIFF, retrospectives, and special event programming.
Educational Engagement:
- School excursions, workshops, and professional development.
- Hands-on activities for all ages, such as stop-motion animation and sound design.
- Resources and programs tailored for lifelong learning.
Special Events:
Talks, masterclasses, and community programs supporting Melbourne’s creative industries.
Interactive Technology:
The “Lens” digital guide allows visitors to collect favorite exhibits and continue exploring online after their visit.
Photography:
Capture ACMI’s striking architecture and immersive galleries (observe signage for any restrictions).

(ACMI Official Site; Victorian Collections; VicScreen; Time Out Melbourne)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are ACMI’s main exhibitions free to enter?
A: Yes, general entry to permanent exhibitions is free; tickets are required for special exhibitions and screenings.

Q: Can I buy tickets online?
A: Yes, purchase tickets for special events via the ACMI website.

Q: Is ACMI accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: The venue is fully accessible with ramps, lifts, and hearing assistance devices.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Guided tours are offered on weekends and can be booked in advance.

Q: What’s the best way to get to ACMI?
A: Public transport is recommended; Flinders Street Station and tram stops are nearby.

Q: Where can I eat during my visit?
A: The ACMI Café + Bar offers meals and snacks; Federation Square also hosts various eateries.

Q: Can I take photos inside ACMI?
A: Photography is permitted in most areas; please respect signage and restrictions.

Conclusion and Call to Action

ACMI is a cornerstone of Melbourne’s creative identity, offering a dynamic and inclusive space where visitors can explore the history, artistry, and technology of the moving image. From its roots as the State Film Centre of Victoria to its evolution as a premier museum, ACMI provides enriching exhibitions, engaging events, and educational programs for all ages.

Plan your visit:
For up-to-date hours, exhibitions, and ticket information, visit the official ACMI website.

Enhance your experience:
Download the Audiala app for curated guides, event updates, and exclusive content.

Stay connected:
Follow ACMI and VicScreen on social media for the latest news, and explore related articles on Melbourne’s heritage and cultural sites to make the most of your time in the city.