Community spaces
At Museums of History NSW, our museums are deeply connected to the places and communities we serve.
We’re delighted to welcome community organisations into our spaces, creating more opportunities for people to experience our museums as places to connect, gather and grow together.
MHNSW is inviting applications from community organisations for the free use of our museum spaces for creative and cultural purposes.
About
Guided by the NSW Government’s Creative Communities policy and our Museums of History NSW Strategy 2025–26, this initiative strengthens the cultural life of our communities and reflects our commitment to activating our sites in meaningful ways. It supports our museums as they continue to evolve as inclusive, engaged and community‑centred places.
Our spaces
Eligibility
We celebrate diversity and welcome applications from community groups of all backgrounds, identities, experiences and communities. We are committed to creating a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for all participants.
- Applications must be submitted at least one month in advance of your preferred date.
- Activities must comply with all MHNSW policies, safety requirements and directions issued by staff prior to the event or when on site.
- Applications will be supported based on operational feasibility.
- Applicants must be not-for-profit or non-commercial organisations, groups or community initiatives.
- Only free activities are eligible. Commercial or profit-generating activities will not be considered.
- High-risk activities are not permitted. Suitable activities may include meetings, community gatherings, workshops or social events.
- Preference will be given to local community groups and initiatives that demonstrate community benefit.
- Applicants agree to acknowledge MHNSW in any promotional material for the activity and to share this material with MHNSW.
- Applicants must inform MHNSW of any change to the nature or scale of the activity after the application is accepted.
- MHNSW reserves the right to decline or withdraw approval for activities that do not align with program guidelines or organisational values.
Restrictions
Due to the operational requirements and heritage nature of our properties, constraints apply to their use.
Food and drink may be permitted in some spaces. Our spaces can be fragile, and some types of food and drink may be restricted or not permitted. In all instances, the requirement for food and drink during your event needs to be discussed and approved prior to confirmation.
The following are not permitted:
- ceramics, adhesives, woodwork, metalwork or other potentially messy materials
- hazardous materials or open flames
- alcohol, smoking or vaping
- drones
- overnight stays
Additionally, please note that organisers are responsible for the removal and disposal of all waste generated during their activity. Organisers may be held responsible for any damage caused to MHNSW property during the activity.
Please note: All applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis and are subject to the discretion of Museums of History NSW.
Frequently asked questions
Further questions
Please email hmpfm@mhnsw.au with any questions.
Applications
Applications are accepted on a year-round, ongoing basis.