Old Treasury Building Melbourne: Step Back in Time for Free
Hear stories of old Melbourne and Victoria at the Old Treasury Building, a cultural landmark, turned museum, offering a window into the past.
On a self-guided tour experience the legacy of the gold rush era and the diverse narratives of the region’s development. With free entry, the museum at the Melbourne Treasury Building welcomes all to explore its exhibitions, including the thought-provoking “Belongings” display of everyday household objects.
Read on for insights from our visit to this fascinating, accessible, historic Melbourne attraction.
Even if you know nought about architecture, as you emerge from the East end of Collins Street and see the Old Treasury Building, you know you are approaching something special.
An integral part of Melbourne’s cultural, social and political history this magnificent building is now home to a museum that brings stories of early Melbourne to life with exhibitions, panoramic photographs and artefacts in an environment of high skirting boards and decorative ceilings.
On our Seniors in Melbourne adventures I’ve referred to several of the handsome old Melbourne buildings as “Treasures”, but none of them have a history of a real treasure, gold, like The Old Treasury.
Just like the old “there’s no flies on you” joke… there’s no gold in the Treasury today but you can see where it’s been… and you can see so much more.
– Chris
Old Treasury Building Melbourne
Upon entering the Old Treasury Building, we were greeted by its imposing facade and intricate Victorian-era design. Before long, friendly team members approached us with leaflets and one volunteer gave a brief introduction about the building and museum.
As we made our way inside, we were drawn to the various exhibitions that showcase Melbourne’s evolution from a fledgling settlement to a bustling metropolis.
The exhibitions within the Old Treasury Building offer a comprehensive overview of Melbourne’s development, covering everything from its early days as a colonial outpost to its emergence as a cultural and economic hub. From the gold rush era to the present day, each exhibit provides a glimpse into the people, events, and landmarks that have shaped the city’s identity.
Particularly captivating was the Gold Treasury, which chronicles Melbourne’s role in the Victorian gold rush of the 1850s. As we marvelled at the glittering displays, we couldn’t help but imagine the excitement and chaos that must have gripped the city during this transformative period.
Exploring the twelve bluestone vaults in the basement plays on one’s imagination. Two thousand, or thereabouts, tonnes of gold bullion from the 1850s Gold Rush, passed through Melbourne and some of it was kept under lock and key, and armed guard, right where you can wander today.
Sadly, there are no specks of the precious metal to be found but there is a replica of the Welcome Stranger, and a wealth of photos, documents and displays of Melbourne’s history are wonderfully presented.
At one point in time, three rooms in the basement lodged the caretaker, his wife and eight children. Their living quarters are preserved today, giving a sobering window into family life back then and a stark contrast with the grand Victorian-era style and furnishings of the floors above.
The Old Treasury is not only a building of significant architecture and history but a place to explore and let your imagination tarry.
– Chris
Belongings: Objects and Family Life
Delve into a poignant exploration of personal stories and connections to place at the “Belongings” exhibit at the Old Treasury Building.
Through a collection of artifacts, photographs, and narratives, visitors are invited to reflect on the concept of belonging and the significance of possessions in shaping one’s identity and sense of home.
The exhibit explores themes of migration, displacement, and cultural heritage, sparking conversations about the universal human need for belonging. Also, the ways in which objects can hold memories and meaning.
Visiting the Old Treasury Building was a really new experience. That part of the city is unfamiliar to me, so I was excited to actually go inside. It was amazing to learn the early history of this building, and imagine the gold that was stored there.
I loved the clips on the screens and couldn’t believe the tiny basement house the caretaker and his wife and 8 children shared…! And we complain if we don’t have 2 bathrooms in the house!
Just walking around the rooms did feel a little claustrophobic. But again, so fascinating to be actually inside this historic building and to feel the walls full of knowledge of what transpired in those rooms many, many years ago.
– Terrie
Guided Tours of Treasury Building Melbourne
Held on the last Sunday of each month, guided tours offer deeper insights into the building’s history as well as exclusive access to the Executive Council Chamber, normally inaccessible to the general public.
Tours cost $15 and must be booked in advance. Find out more here.
Entry and Accessibility
The Old Treasury Building is open from 10 am to 4 pm on Sundays to Fridays, with Saturdays being closed.
Entrance ramps and lift access within the building are options for those with mobility challenges. Accessible toilets are also onsite.
The museum is conveniently located at 20 Spring Street in Melbourne, making it easily accessible by public transport or car. Catch the 12 or 48 tram from Flinders Street Station, or walk less than 100 metres from Parliament Station on the city loop.
Visitors are invited to explore online exhibitions, which can be a great option for anyone who may prefer to engage with content from the comfort of their own homes.
Tidbits for visiting Old Treasury Building Melbourne
- General visits to the museum are free, with donations welcome;
- Open from 10 am to 4 pm every day except Saturday;
- The quietest time to visit is in the afternoon on a weekday;
- Entrance ramps, lift, and accessible toilets are available;
- The museum offers guided tours at $15 held on the last Sunday of each month;
- Stop at Treasury Gardens right next-door for a peaceful retreat;
- Catch the 12 or 48 tram from Flinders Street Station, or walk less than 100 metres from Parliament Station on the city loop.
Old Treasury Building Melbourne
20 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000
03 9651 2233 | www.oldtreasurybuilding.org.au
