Melbournes Living Museum of the West (Maribyrnong)

Australia's first ecomuseum, Melboune's Living Museum of the West is a community museum, operating in the western region of Melbourne.

An ecomuseum is a museum focused on the identity of a place, largely based on local participation and aiming to enhance the welfare and development of local communities.

The Living Museum, as it is more commonly known, was set up in 1984 to address what was then seen as a disadvantaged region, geographically flat and rocky, heavily industrialised with a high migrant population. The ecomuseum concept regards the area researched by a museum as part of the museum itself.

The western region covers a large geographical area (see map) west of Melbourne which includes industrial suburbs merging into rural areas. Geologically it sits on an extensive basalt plain with low rainfall. Its population is approximately 500,000 people from approximately 70 different countries.

More than 30 % of the population were born in another country. It has in fact given rise to a cultural dynamic that challenges more conventional forms of interpretation. The Living Museum is best known for its outreach programs and close involvement with the community it serves.

Opening Hours:

Opening Times

Note:Due to building repair works, the Living Museum of the West has been temporarily relocated to: Maribyrnong Library, 120 Rosamond Road, Maribyrnong. Works are expected to be completed in 2025, and are aligned with the recommendations of Heritage Victoria.

Cost:

Free or by donation

Location: The Living Museum Visitor Centre, Resource Centre, Library and bookshop is situated in the Bluestone Buildings on the banks of the Maribyrnong River in Pipemakers Park.