Australia’s National Science and Technology Centre, Questacon is celebrating a major milestone this week, celebrating 35 years since it was officially opened on 23 November 1988.

From humble beginnings operating out of Ainslie Primary School, to its current location in the heart of Canberra’s Parliamentary Triangle, Questacon continues to inspire curiosity and a life-long love of science.

To celebrate 35 years, Questacon will hold a Community Celebration event on the weekend of 25 - 26 November, bringing together the famous Science Circus with a range of free, engaging exhibits and hands-on play activities.

Questacon is also showcasing its vibrant history, culture and purpose through a collection of stories on its website.

Half a million Australians pass through the doors of Questacon each year, with more engaging through its national programs and online resources.

Questacon was officially opened on 23 November 1988 as a joint Australian-Japanese- Bicentennial Project.

Questacon was founded 8 years earlier by ANU Professor Mike Gore AM, whose great love of teaching both students and the general public inspired him to develop Australia’s first interactive science centre.

Quotes attributable to the Hon Ed Husic, Minister for Industry and Science:

“Questacon is a national institution that has seen generations of Australians getting hands-on with science. 

“It’s a testament to Australians’ love of science in action, that Questacon is a must-see stop on any visit to Canberra.

“Questacon has inspired Aussie kids for over three decades and helped them to see their own future in science and technology. 

“Australia's future depends on science, and that starts with ensuring our nationally beloved home of science and technology continues to thrive for decades to come.

“The Government is ensuring a secure future for Questacon, which is why we invested $60 million earlier this year to enable Questacon to remain a world-class facility and grow its number of visitors in the years to come.”