Museums and the History Wars

The National Museum of Australia has become embroiled in the 'history wars' being fought over the character of the nation's past. Polarized arguments are generally unhelpful to cultural institutions charged with long-term objectives that extend beyond media reportage and the political cycle. This paper examines two key issues, concerning museum practice and the representation of national history, in the aftermath of the recent review of the NMA's exhibitions and public programs. It concludes by asking for a new synthesis of Australian histories and professional practice in museums to meet the challenges of contemporary debates.