Victoria Police Museum

Explore Melbourne and Victoria's social and cultural history through a unique collection of artefacts, displays and documents.

The Victoria Police Museum reflects the work of the Victorian police force since its inception in 1853.

See over 150 years of stories and displays of crime, justice, courage, forensic techniques and examples of how police are making Victoria a safer place to live.

Exhibitions

Permanent gallery
The museum reopened on 25 September 2023, with key exhibits on display from Victoria Police's historically significant collection.

Visitors can experience a completely new space, exploring carefully curated displays on various themes from major investigations to historical and modern policing.

The space is designed to be an engaging visitor experience that includes interactive displays to touch and explore.

Cardomania
The exhibition showcases part of the museum's photographic collection.

In 1854, a new type of photography was invented which allowed everyday people to have their portrait taken. 'Cardomania' was how the press at the time described the craze for cartes de visite (visiting cards) which became highly prized and collectable in the 19th century.

Our collection includes some portraits of 19th century convicted criminals, which were sometimes used by police at that time, for identification purposes.

Police Animals
Our latest exhibition, Police Animals, showcases the history and ongoing use of police and emergency service animals.

Police Animals features stories and objects from our collection, including items belonging to the iconic 1960s and 70s drum horse Gendarme. The exhibition also includes never-before displayed objects on loan from specialist squads within Victoria Police.

This family-friendly exhibition includes interactives for kids of all ages.