Sydney's $915M Museum Opens Free for All Kids Under 16

Walk through a mirror maze shaped like forest lungs, explore inside a meteorite filled with glowing crystals, or stand beside the first Qantas plane ever built. Powerhouse Parramatta is bringing world-class wonder to Western Sydney starting November 7.

The $915 million museum unveiled its opening lineup on Sunday, featuring five immersive exhibitions designed to spark curiosity in visitors of all ages. British artist Es Devlin's "The Turning" includes "Forest of Us," a labyrinth of mirrors that reveals surprising connections between trees and human lungs through light and reflection.

Young explorers will love "The Dark," an exhibition set inside a meteorite-like structure showcasing over 800 objects including a crystal tunnel and rare minerals. The museum invited 100 children from across Western Sydney to loan their most treasured possessions for display, complete with the personal stories behind each item.

"Overflow," a First Nations-led exhibition, invites visitors to literally walk on water while learning about Aboriginal custodianship of NSW waterways. Through films by acclaimed Kamilaroi director Ivan Sen, audiences will discover cultural practices that protect species, prevent floods, and maintain water quality.

"Task Eternal" explores humanity's dreams of flight, featuring a NASA moon rock and Leonardo da Vinci's original flying machine drawings alongside a replica of the very first Qantas plane. Meanwhile, "The Mall" celebrates Western Sydney as the birthplace of Westfield shopping centers, displaying rare Australian fashion items and even Steve Jobs' signature jeans.

The Bright Side

CEO Lisa Havilah says the new space allows for exhibitions where visitors can truly immerse themselves, not just observe from behind glass. The museum's flexible design means large-scale installations can transform how people experience art and science.

Four of the five exhibitions will be completely free for visitors under 16. Only "Task Eternal" will charge admission for guests 16 and older, though the price hasn't been announced yet.

Arts Minister John Graham emphasizes the museum offers real value to families facing cost-of-living pressures. "We want to ensure that price isn't a barrier for young people to explore big ideas, creativity, and innovation," he said.

More than 3,000 objects sourced from Australia and around the world are still being installed as opening day approaches. Western Sydney families finally have a world-class cultural destination in their own backyard.