The Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) is located on Acton Peninsula next to Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra, within walking or cycling distance from the city centre and the Australian National University. Visitors can access temporary exhibitions or the permanent displays in the main entrance hall, as well as conduct their own research in the Library.
Opening hours
- AIATSIS Reception is open 9.00am to 5.00pm on weekdays.
- The Reading Room is open Monday to Friday: 11.00am - 3.00pm.
Address: 51 Lawson Crescent, Canberra ACT
Conditions of entry
To help us protect the collections we care for, we ask visitors to familiarise themselves with the following policies before coming to AIATSIS.
Visitors to AIATSIS
We welcome visits to AIATSIS and will facilitate general tours where possible.
For tour information please email us.
For access visits to Collections please phone 02 6246 1182 or email us.
Read more about visiting the collection.
Getting here
Parking
- Please note that pay parking applies at AIATSIS
- The cost of parking is $2.50 per hour for short-stay spaces (those closest to the National Museum of Australia) or $12.00 per day for long-stay spaces
- Pay parking applies 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays)
- It does not apply to motorbikes or accessibility parking spaces.
Local bus services
Action bus number 7 operates to the National Museum of Australia. Check the bus route, timetable information and fares on the Action website.
Cycling
Bicycle paths lead to AIATSIS and bicycle racks are available for your use. A map of bicycle paths is available from the Department of Territory and Municipal Services.
Walking
Enjoy a walk to AIATSIS from the city on the paths along the northern shore of Lake Burley Griffin. A map of walking paths is available from the Department of Territory and Municipal Services.
Visiting Canberra
All Australians are reflected in their nation's capital, Canberra. The city's national attractions care for and share the treasures of our nation, from Australia's proud sporting achievements and our unique political history, to Australian characters portrayed through sound and film, books and exhibitions. Canberra is full of fantastic experiences for visitors. Set within leafy surrounds, this modern city offers fun for the kids, a busy calendar of events and festivals, as well as stylish restaurants, bars and shops.
More information about Canberra and the surrounding region including location details, facts and figures, how to get here and how to see the nation's capital is available from Visit Canberra - or phone the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre on 1300 554 114 or + 61 2 6205 0044 if calling from outside Australia.