Museum of Applied Arts and Science

The Museum of Applied Arts and Science is a science and technology museum in Ultimo, a district west of central Sydney. The exhibition halls span several levels and present collections from historical objects to space exploration technology.

The museum began in 1879 as Sydney Technical College with a mission to promote technical education and craft skills. During the 20th century, the focus expanded to industrial history and scientific innovation, until the building became a major public museum.

Visitors encounter objects from everyday life of early settlers and immigrant communities, including old tools and household items. The collection shows how people in Sydney once worked and lived, focusing on practical crafts and early engineering.

The museum sits a short walk from Harris Street and Darling Harbour, with ramps and lifts throughout all areas. Visitor groups should choose early morning hours when the halls are less crowded.

One of the oldest working steam engines in Australia stands on display here and is regularly operated. The engine comes from a textile factory in New South Wales and shows the mechanism that once powered entire industrial buildings.

Location: Ultimo

Inception: 1879

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Fee: No

Address: 500 Harris St, Ultimo NSW

Opening Hours: closed "Closed for renovations"

Website: https://maas.museum

GPS coordinates: -33.87861,151.19944

Latest update: December 20, 2025 11:55