Sydney Jewish Museum, Sydney

The Sydney Jewish Museum is located in Darlinghurst, housed within the historic Maccabean Hall, a building originally opened in 1923 to commemorate Jewish soldiers who served in World War I. Established as a museum in 1992, it is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of the Holocaust, Jewish life and culture, and the contributions of the Jewish community to Australia. The museum combines personal testimony, artefacts, photographs, and interactive displays to explore both global and local histories through a human lens.

Exhibitions trace the rise of Nazism, the experience of Jewish communities during the Holocaust, and the journeys of survivors who rebuilt their lives in Australia after World War II. Many survivors have contributed their own stories, and guided tours often include firsthand accounts from volunteers who lived through the events. Objects such as identity papers, letters, and family photographs provide tangible connections to individual lives behind historical events.

Alongside its Holocaust collections, the museum also presents exhibitions on Australian Jewish history, culture, and faith. Themes include migration, identity, and community life, reflecting the broader experience of Jewish Australians since the first convicts arrived in the 18th century. Educational programs, lectures, and cultural events are held regularly, reinforcing the museum’s role as both a memorial and a centre for dialogue.