Koorie Heritage Trust Indigenous Art Gallery Melbourne
Tucked away in the bustling heart of Federation Square, the Koorie Heritage Trust art gallery is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the rich culture and history of the First Peoples of South Eastern Australia.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this Indigenous art gallery offers an enriching experience that both provokes thought and dazzles visually.
It’s a must-see for anyone who values Aboriginal art, culture, and storytelling.
Related reading: Melbourne’s Indigenous Heart: Koorie Heritage Trust Walk, Gallery and Shop
KHT Current Indigenous Exhibitions Melbourne
Connie Hart: One Stitch at a Time
Connie Hart: One Stitch at a Time celebrates the extraordinary legacy of master weaver Aunty Connie Hart, showcasing more than fifty fibre works created during the 1980s and 1990s. Drawn from the Koorie Heritage Trust’s collection, along with significant loans from the National Gallery of Australia and Museums Victoria, the exhibition highlights the survival and continuity of weaving as a vital First Peoples practice in South East Australia.
Complementing the display is Gilgar Gunditj Eel Basket, created in honour of Aunty Connie and stitched from natural fibre (Puunyort) sourced from her Country. Together, these works reflect the strength, resilience, and intergenerational passing on of cultural knowledge, with contemporary weaver Sandra Aitken continuing her legacy today.
On display until 23 November 2025 at the Koorie Heritage Trust, Fed Square.
The 13th Koorie Art Show
This annual exhibition features a diverse range of works by Aboriginal and Torres Straiter artists aged 17 and above, showcasing their creativity, culture, and stories.
The event also includes the Koorie Art Show Young Mob 7, highlighting the artistic expressions of young talents aged 5 to 16 years. The judging panel, composed of esteemed artists, commends the powerful themes of resilience, identity, and cultural pride reflected in the artworks.
Attendees can explore the exhibition, view the award-winning pieces, and purchase artworks, making this a remarkable celebration of Indigenous artistry and community.
Koorie Art Show 13 and Young Mob showing from 6 Dec 2025 to 22 Feb 2026.
Terrie’s review
I’ve been to the Koorie Heritage Trust exhibitions twice now and will make this a regular stopping place on my outings in Melbourne. It’s so easy to get off the train at Flinders Street and walk over to Federation Square to the KHT.
The artwork is always inspiring. I love the deep, meaningful stories that accompany each piece. My most memorable visit was to see the “Spirit of the Animals” exhibition, which included both paintings and sculptures. Animals are an important part of Creation and Creation stories for First Peoples and are considered very sacred within First Nations and clan groups.
Koorie Heritage Trust Permanent Collection
Visitors can explore the rotating displays on the 3rd floor of the Yarra Building at Federation Square, which feature unique items that reflect the cultural heritage and ongoing journey of these communities.
The open storage display drawers invite a deeper understanding of the First Peoples of Victoria and their significant contributions to the cultural tapestry of Australia.
Touring Exhibition JXSH MVIR Forever I Live
The Koorie Heritage Trust presents “JXSH MVIR: Forever I Live,” a touring exhibition celebrating the late artist Josh Muir. It explores themes of cultural identity, colonization, and personal loss through Muir’s powerful artworks, highlighting his impact on First Peoples art. Find out more here.
Shop KHT
Explore the Koorie Heritage Trust Shop for a truly distinctive shopping experience.
By supporting the Koorie Shop, visitors not only take home a piece of Aboriginal artistry but also contribute to the preservation and promotion of Koorie heritage.
The Koorie Heritage Trust also runs an informative walking tour. Read more about our experience on the tour here.
Tidbits for Visiting Koorie Heritage Trust
- Koorie Heritage Trust is open daily from 10 am – 5 pm;
- Entry is free;
- Stop by Shop KOORIE for art, gifts and homewares;
- We highly recommend doing the Koorie Heritage Trust walking tour;
- Nearby dining options we recommend are Chocolate Buddha, Riverland and Brunetti Oro.
Accessibility Koorie Heritage Trust
- The KHT gallery, shop, and walking tours are wheelchair accessible;
- Access to the Level 2 and 3 galleries is via an escalator (going up only) or 23 steps with handrails.
- Lift access and accessible bathrooms are available;
- Koorie Heritage Trust is located at Birrarung Building, Federation Square;
- Getting there is easy via public transport within 200 metres of Flinders Street Station.
Koorie Heritage Trust
Yarra Building, Federation Square, Cnr Swanston & Flinders Streets, Melbourne
(03) 8662 6300 koorieheritagetrust.com.au
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