The Victoria Police Museum presents visitors with insights into Victoria's social and cultural history through a unique collection of objects, displays and documents including Australia's largest collection of Kelly Gang armour.
The museum offers an immersive experience from the beginnings that detail the establishment of Victoria Police, through to modern policing and technology.
Explore the years of societal change of the 20th century, world conflicts that show the dual role police have in wartime and on peacekeeping missions, and the equipment used by police. Uncover some of the major investigations, including forensics and major crimes, and a section dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
The latest exhibition, People, Plans and Places, showcases part of the museum's collection of architectural drawings of police buildings and the stories of police officers and their families who lived and worked in these buildings.
Hours
Closed now
Facilities and visitor features
8 features
Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids)
I really enjoyed the overall experience at the museum. It was a lovely surprise to see exhibits featuring the dog squad and mounted police, as they provided a great insight into those areas of policing.
I do wish the forensic section included more detailed information, as that part was especially interesting to me. I spent around two hours exploring the museum at a relaxed pace and found it very engaging. However, if you read through everything quickly, it would probably take around 40 minutes to complete as the museum is not very large.
My only other suggestion would be to have weekend opening hours as well. It took me quite a long time to finally find a suitable day to visit and explore the museum.
Lora Olsen
Google review
The best free museum including kids in Melbourne. My daughter had a blast. The ladies at the reception are super kind. They offered my kid a few hunts she could enjoy. The structure and the exhibits of this museum are absolutely amazing and presented in a very engaging way. There were a few police items we could “play” with. After finishing the hunt my kid was given a present, actually a couple pf presents. She liked the place very much and even asked when we can re-visit it!
Consumed
Google review
They have the Kelly armour here that the gang used that's worth the visit alone to see. It's free entry and there's a good amount to see without having to stay too long.
Ian W
Google review
Small but well curated museum showcasing the history of Victoria's police force.
You'll need about 20 minutes to walk through - longer if you engage with the interactive installations.
Great for both kids and adults.
Wheelchair accessible and all on one level floor.
Staff very approachable :)
Located within the Melbourne West police complex - very close to Southern Cross train station , trams along both Spencer st and Latrobe Street (including the number 35 tourist tram).
Free entry.
Karla “Queen Vadelle”
Google review
Stumbled across this place by accident. Such a beautiful representation of VIC Police service history. From K9, horseback, to mechanical and human - there was something for everyone. Well presented and curated. With a different (police) perspective of the Ned Kelly incident. Fingerprint analysis, forensic photofits all with an interactive aspect which kids love. Making learning the importance of our history fun while engaging. Highly recommend!