Filter by
State Library of NSW

The Australian Dream?

Where
State Library of NSW
State Library of NSW
Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Exhibition Galleries
When

Every day, 9am to 8pm Saturday 14 June to Sunday 15 March 2026

Cost

Free

From the suburbs to the bush and the inner city, Australians have been obsessed with the idea of home and the dream of home ownership.

In this exhibition comedian, television presenter, and architecture and design enthusiast Tim Ross casts his unique eye across the library’s archives and images. Uncovering stories from across the decades of how we have been sold and realised ideas of home, Tim looks at why Australians have chased home ownership, and explores some of the unique and special ways we have built in this place. 

We are a nation that is undeniably fixated on property, but increasingly the headlines are about housing scarcity, affordability and mortgage pain. For many Australians, owning a home now seems like an unattainable dream. So, what can we learn from our past to help solve the problems of the future, and how can we reimagine the Australian Dream? 

Generously supported by the State Library of NSW Foundation.

Other events at State Library of NSW

Paper Universe: The book as art

Paper Universe: The book as art

Discover rare and beautiful works by contemporary artists, from the Library’s little-known collection of artists’ books.
Today 9am to 8pm
Mervyn Bishop: Close Up

Mervyn Bishop: Close Up

A rare glimpse behind the lens of one of Australia’s most important photographers.
Today 9am to 8pm
Teacher special event: The Curious World of Pamela Allen

Teacher special event: The Curious World of Pamela Allen

Immerse yourself in The Curious World of Pamela Allen and discover the story behind the exhibition.
Today 4.30pm to 6pm
The Curious World of Pamela Allen

The Curious World of Pamela Allen

Step into the whimsical world of beloved author and illustrator Pamela Allen.
Today 9am to 8pm
The Paintings Gallery

The Paintings Gallery

More than 300 original artworks of landscape and portrait paintings on permanent display at the State Library of NSW.
Today 9am to 8pm
Artist’s Book workshop with Avril Makula

Artist’s Book workshop with Avril Makula

Renowned artist’s book creator Avril Makula leads this interactive, hands-on workshop!
12 Nov 2025
Profound Autism Symposium

Profound Autism Symposium

A landmark event placing profound autism on the national agenda.
17 Nov 2025