About Us
The Women’s Museum of Australia (formerly the National Pioneer Women’s Hall of Fame) and Old Gaol, Alice Springs.
The Women’s Museum of Australia is dedicated to identifying and preserving the place of women in Australian history and sharing their stories. We hold a collection of over 2500 objects relating to women’s history and achievements, a library of significant women’s literature and history and an archive of over 1500 extraordinary women who have shaped Australian history.
Located in Alice Springs, the Women’s Museum was founded as The National Pioneer Women’s Hall of Fame in 1993 by Molly Clark. Since 2007, the Museum has been located on the site of the NT Heritage listed Old Alice Springs Gaol.
Across two exhibition halls the Women’s Museum currently houses four permanent exhibitions.
Old Gaol stories are sensitively told in separate men’s and women’s cell blocks.
We are a non — government, not for profit organisation and rely upon the generosity of our volunteers, visitors, retail sales and grants to keep history alive.
MISSION
- To educate, inspire and empower people by exploring the distinctive history and contributions of Australian women.
- To share the stories and impact of the Old Alice Springs Gaol.
VISION
An empowered community that recognises and understands Australia’s diverse stories, and embraces a more inclusive future.
VALUES
- Inclusiveness – we value diversity, and are committed to sharing new ideas and stories.
- Integrity – we always show respect and empathy, and act professionally.
- Community-focussed – we are committed to our local community and its place in the national landscape.
- Quality – we aim to continually improve and embrace positive change.
AIMS
- celebrate the pioneering women of Australia as well as the achievements of Australian women who were first in their field, in a well-presented museum atmosphere.
- establish a museum recording the history of the Old Gaol.
OBJECTIVES
- establish a public museum for the purpose of recognising and honouring pioneering women who contributed to the development of Australia, which will be open and accessible to all members of the public during usual and reasonable business hours;
- assemble, exhibit, and preserve a collection of pioneering women’s artefacts, photographs and memorabilia;
- develop a research library of pioneering women’s literature, historical records, and personal manuscripts;
- promote knowledge and understanding by the Australian community of the special contribution of women;
- foster research into the role played by pioneering women in Australia;
- establish museum displays depicting aspects of the history of the Old Alice Springs Gaol;
- research and collect recollections of prison life from former staff and inmates;
- promote the use of the Old Gaol premises by other entities to enhance the attraction of the complex and to generate income;
- develop relationships and assist other organisations with similar aims;
- have a safe and accessible complex for all visitors.
