Melbourne Tram Museum Inc.:
Melbourne Tram Museum Inc.

Melbourne Tram Museum Inc.

Located in the heritage-listed Hawthorn Tram Depot, this museum preserves Melbourne's tramway history, exploring its significance since 1885. It honors the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people as traditional land custodians.

Hawthorn, VIC (view contact and location information)

ABN: 11293508607

Founded on ,
registered as a charity on the
ACNC Charity Register
since .

How This Charity Supports the Community

Melbourne Tram Museum Inc. is a volunteer-based, non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of Melbourne’s tramways. Located at the heritage-listed Hawthorn Tram Depot, the museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the social and technical evolution of Melbourne’s iconic tram system, which has been integral to the city’s development since the late 19th century.

Mission and Vision

The museum’s mission is to preserve, maintain, and display Melbourne’s tramway heritage for the benefit of the public and future generations. It aims to educate visitors about the historical significance of trams in Melbourne’s urban and social landscape. The vision is to be a leading centre for tramway heritage, fostering appreciation and understanding of Melbourne’s public transport history through authentic exhibits and community engagement.

Main Objectives

  • Operate and maintain the Hawthorn Tram Depot as a dedicated museum space.
  • Acquire, conserve, and exhibit historic tramcars and related memorabilia that illustrate Melbourne’s tramway story.
  • Promote awareness of tramway heritage through educational programs and public events.
  • Support volunteer involvement to assist with museum operations, restoration projects, and visitor services.
  • Provide information and resources about the history and development of Melbourne’s tramways.

Benefiting Groups

The museum primarily benefits local communities, tram enthusiasts, historians, students, and tourists interested in Melbourne’s transport heritage. It also serves volunteers and researchers who contribute to and gain from the preservation efforts. The museum’s educational focus supports schools and community groups by offering access to historical knowledge and cultural experiences.

Services and Activities

  • Exhibitions of fully restored historic trams, including rare models like the W-class and cable trams.
  • Guided tours led by knowledgeable volunteers on open days, providing insights into tram history and technology.
  • Educational programs tailored for schools and community groups to engage with Melbourne’s tramway heritage.
  • Volunteer opportunities for those interested in tram restoration, museum operations, and heritage promotion.
  • Donations and membership options to support ongoing preservation and museum activities.
Get Involved & Make a Difference

See FAQs about donating to Melbourne Tram Museum Inc.:

Do they accept donations of tramway memorabilia?

They are always interested in receiving donations of tramway material related to Melbourne or Victorian trams, including photographs, film, tickets, documents, uniforms and other ephemera. Donors of material are acknowledged in u2018The Bellcordu2019, the journal of the Melbourne Tram Museum.

What should I be aware of when considering a donation to their collection?

When considering making a donation to the collection of the Melbourne Tram Museum, you should be aware of their policy guidelines for accepting donations of material: the donated item must be relevant to the collectionu2019s primary purpose, relevant documentation and provenance should be available, the condition of the item should be reasonable, storage and display conditions must be available and suitable for the item, conditional terms of donation will not be accepted, and duplicates in general will not be accepted unless with particular relevant provenance. The item will also need to be available for research or viewing.

Who should I contact if I wish to donate tramway items?

If you have any items you wish to donate, please contact them at info@trammuseum.org.au or call in on one of their open days.

Opportunities for Volunteering at a Tramway Museum

The Melbourne Tram Museum Inc., a non-profit organisation, is devoted to conserving the rich history of Melbourne’s tramway. Completely staffed by dedicated volunteers, they are always seeking new members to further develop the museum. Volunteers can engage as guides, work in the museum shop on open days, or help with exhibitions that interpret Melbourne’s tramway heritage.

Volunteers also play a crucial role in preserving heritage items, promoting the museum, and maintaining facilities. While enthusiasm and commitment are essential, the museum supports various abilities, especially in retail, graphic design, and marketing. Training is provided to find the perfect fit for each individual.

To ensure insurance coverage, volunteers must be financial members of the museum. Those interested in contributing to this heritage conservation are encouraged to reach out or visit during open days for more information.

Volunteer Requirements - Working with Children

As this charity works with children under 18 years of age, the organisation requires all volunteers to obtain a Working with Children Check (WWCC) before commencing any volunteer activities.

This is a mandatory requirement to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the children in their care.


Visit Melbourne Tram Museum Inc.’s official website to explore volunteering opportunities and how you can get involved.

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Source of information and last update date:

The information on this profile has been sourced from the ACNC Registered Charities dataset and the organisation’s own website.
The last review was completed on .
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