ANZ Banking Museum: A Vault of History

Housed in the lower ground floor of the ANZ's 'Gothic Bank' at 388 Collins Street, the ANZ Banking Museum offers a unique glimpse into Australia's banking heritage. The museum's displays feature a rich collection of artifacts, including banknotes, coins, moneyboxes, and office machines, alongside gold-mining equipment and uniforms. These items, drawn from ANZ's extensive archives, tell the story of banking's evolution and its impact on Australian society over more than 170 years. The museum's exhibits trace the development of banking from early Indigenous economies to 19th-century practices, highlighting technological advancements and their influence on the financial landscape. A key theme is financial literacy, illustrated by a unique collection of historic moneyboxes, including the origin of the name 'piggy bank' which evolved from 'pygg banks' due to the clay they were made from. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored interior of the Gothic Bank, designed by William Wardell, which blends heritage preservation with contemporary design. The building itself is classified by the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) as being of world significance. The museum not only showcases the past but also touches on the future of banking, offering a comprehensive view of the industry's journey. The ANZ Banking Museum was established in May 1985 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Royal Charter granted to the Bank of Australasia, a major predecessor of ANZ. A major refurbishment in 2007 updated the museum with more interactive displays.