10 Things to Do at the National Film and Sound Archive in Canberra, Australia



The National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA) in Canberra is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of film and sound in Australia. The NFSA houses an extensive collection of over 2.8 million items, making it the largest archive of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. From classic films to rare recordings, the NFSA offers visitors a chance to explore Australia’s rich heritage through its collection of films, television programs, radio broadcasts, and music. Here are 10 things to do at the National Film and Sound Archive in Canberra.

1. Take a Tour: The NFSA offers guided tours of its facilities, giving visitors a chance to explore the archive’s collections and learn about its history. Tours are available for both individuals and groups and are a great way to get a comprehensive overview of the NFSA’s holdings.

2. Watch a Movie: The NFSA’s cinema regularly screens classic and contemporary films from its collection. Guests can watch films in a comfortable and intimate setting and learn more about the history of Australian cinema.

3. Listen to Music: The NFSA’s music collection includes over 1.2 million sound recordings from the past century. Visitors can listen to rare recordings of classical music, jazz, and popular music from Australia and around the world.

4. View Exhibitions: The NFSA hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing its extensive collection of films, television programs, and sound recordings. Exhibitions are a great way to learn more about the history of Australian film and sound.

5. Attend Events: The NFSA regularly hosts events and workshops, giving visitors a chance to learn more about the history of Australian film and sound. Events range from lectures and screenings to interactive workshops and panel discussions.

6. Visit the Library: The NFSA’s library is a great source of information on the history of Australian film and sound. The library holds a variety of books, magazines, and other materials related to the archive’s collections.

7. Explore the Collection: The NFSA’s online collection contains over 2.8 million items, including films, television programs, radio broadcasts, and music. Visitors can search the collection to explore Australia’s rich heritage.

8. Take a Workshop: The NFSA offers a range of workshops, giving visitors a chance to learn more about the history of film and sound in Australia. Workshops range from basic introduction to more advanced topics, such as film and sound restoration.

9. Visit the Store: The NFSA’s store offers a variety of items related to Australian film and sound. Visitors can purchase books, DVDs, CDs, and other merchandise related to the archive’s collections.

10. Explore the Archive: The NFSA’s archive is open to the public, offering visitors a chance to explore its extensive collection of films, television programs, radio broadcasts, and music. Visitors can also access the NFSA’s digital collection, which contains over 2.8 million items.