Explore ACMI's Media Preservation Lab and enjoy free screenings during Open House Melbourne weekend.
Saturday 25 July 2026
to Sunday 26 July 2026
Federation Square, Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Free
Step behind the scenes at ACMI’s Blackmagic Design Media Preservation Lab, a unique opportunity to discover how precious screen stories are preserved. This event offers a rare glimpse into the expert work of ACMI’s conservators and the fascinating collection they protect.
Enjoy free screenings of two captivating short films from ACMI’s collection, showcasing Melbourne’s iconic arts precinct and innovative building design tailored to Australian conditions. It’s a perfect outing for families interested in culture and screen heritage.
This event is free and open to all, making it an accessible and enriching experience for parents and children alike.
Tours last approximately 35 minutes and run daily at 10:15, 11:15, 13:15, and 14:15. Screenings are 40 minutes long and scheduled daily at 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 13:30, and 14:30.
Tours are conducted on a first-come, first-served basis with limited capacity, so arriving early is recommended. Children under 5 must be accompanied by an adult.
Please note that tours involve standing with limited seating available inside the Preservation Lab.
Meet at Level 1 Foyer, opposite the ticket desk, at ACMI located in Federation Square, Naarm/Melbourne.
The venue is accessible, but visitors with specific access needs are encouraged to speak with ACMI staff upon arrival.
No food or drink is allowed inside the lab tours except securely closed drink bottles.
This event is part of Open House Melbourne and focuses on the preservation of analogue and digital media.
Visitors will gain insight into the challenges of conserving time-based media and software-based artefacts.
The event respects and acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land, the Wurundjeri people, and celebrates First Nations storytelling.
Tickets are free with no bookings required. Tours operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so early arrival is advised to secure a spot.
Enjoy this no-cost cultural experience suitable for families and anyone interested in media preservation and Melbourne’s arts heritage.
