The Chinese Australian Museum has welcomed the $1.4 million contribution towards its $35 million redevelopment announced in the 2025-26 Federal Budget.

Located in Melbourne’s China Town, the Museum is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2025. A hub of learning and engagement, the Museum welcomes 30,000 school children and more than 100,000 visitors each year.

“The Chinese Australian Museum’s plan is to create an iconic cultural centre in the heart of Melbourne as a drawcard attracting the whole community,” said Rebecca Huang, Chairperson of the Museum Board.

“As a 40-year-old museum representing a 200-year contribution the Chinese have made to Australian society, we have outgrown our facilities and the current museum is no longer reflective of vast history of the Chinese in Australia, from the Gold Rush to our thriving community today.

“This $1.4 million initial contribution from the Federal Government will fund pre-planning works to support the total $35 million museum redevelopment.

“The redeveloped museum will be a major Melbourne tourism destination. Increasing building to ten floors, it will enable the museum to show more of our 10,000-piece collection and update exhibitions to better show the story of the Chinese who have made Australia home and contributed to our country.

“We thank the Hon. Julian Hill MP, Assistant Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs for getting behind the Chinese community’s endeavors to develop this new facility that will contribute to creating a more harmonious Australian society.”