Advocating for Australian university museums and collections as essential cultural and intellectual infrastructures that support teaching, learning, research, and community engagement. Sharing knowledge, bridging institutions and professionals, evolving collective impact.
Become a MemberWith over 200 university-based museums and collections across Australia, there is a rich and diverse range to explore and connect with. Explore the collections of our members below.
ANU Xylarium, 2019
The ANU holds more than 50 specialist research, teaching and heritage collections – including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander objects and cultural material, as well as cultural material from Asia and the Pacific, artworks, antiquities, a herbarium, geological and archaeological samples, biological specimens, mid-century furniture and a wood library.
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UOM, 2025
The Medical History Museum has the oldest and finest collection of its type associated with a medical school in Australia covering the history of Melbourne Medical School and the broader history of medicine in Australia and overseas. In 2017, the collection was expanded to encompass the rich knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples bush medicine and healing practices through contemporary art.
Chau Chak Wing Museum, USYD, 2020
Located on Gadigal land, the Chau Chak Wing Museum is a hub for sharing the University of Sydney's extensive collections with the wider community. From First Nations culture, natural history collections, antiquities, and contemporary art works, the Museum’s collection embodies cultural and artistic creativity at its core and welcomes all communities to engage with the collections
University of Canberra Library art display curated by students (2025: Zora Pang)
The University of Canberra Art Collection comprises approximately 800 artworks and cultural materials, spanning painting, drawing, print, textiles, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. The collection supports teaching, research, and cultural engagement, reflecting diverse artistic practices and enriching environment of the University and its broader community.
CAUMAC aims to provide advocacy and practical support for its members working within the university sector. As a volunteer organisation, we encourage our members to help build a strong and supportive community of practice with us that all can benefit from.
Networking opportunities
Free or discounted access to CAUMAC seminars and other events
Advocacy and advice support
Example procedure and policy templates for managing collections wihtin a university context
As we re-establish ourselves as an independent organisation dedicated to supporting those working with Australian university museums and collections, we’d love to hear from you.
What kinds of resources, programs, or events would be most valuable to you?
For example, are you interested in professional development, events, networking opportunities, advocacy and/or template guidelines and resources?
Your input will help shape what we offer, as we develop a supportive CAUMAC community.
