Properties & Collections

Collectively, the National Trust owns and manages nearly 280 properties Australia-wide, with about 180 open to the public. Natural and built environment places are part of the portfolio with the latter being representative of the wide array of places that make up our built heritage.

The National Trust has under its care historic gaols and police stations, an aviation complex, railway stations, retail outlets, places of worship, inns, gardens and residential properties, modest workers cottages, as well as grand mansions.

Substantial collections are associated with many of the properties. The wealth of decorative arts, furniture, paintings, costumes, and other memorabilia provide a very important insight into the lifestyles of the past. Additionally, the organisation has noteworthy collections of vehicles, machinery and tools. Amongst the collections are individual items and collected works that are of national significance. For example, the organisation has the most significant colonial furniture collection in the country.

Around 1,000,000 visitors experience the properties and their collections in Australia, each year. Conscious of the importance of presenting the properties and collections thoroughly - and improving visitor experience - considerable effort is placed on quality interpretation. At many of the properties, the State and Territory Trusts also undertake various educational programs, particularly targeting younger people.

Much work is being done by the National Trust to ensure that the story of Australia's heritage is told.
Visit the State and Territory web sites for more information about the National Trust's properties and collections.