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Learn more about the relocation of Ned Kelly's armour and various space closures in October 2023. More information.

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Ned Kelly's Armour

Date
15 April 2021, 10:00am01 October 2023, 6:00pm
CostFree
Bookings No bookings required
Location South Rotunda
The Gateway

Australia's most notorious bushranger has split public opinion for more than a century – Edward 'Ned' Kelly is a criminal who robbed and killed to some, but a heroic underdog to others. 

Fascination with the story of Ned Kelly often centres on his body armour, worn during the final siege.

Our display of Kelly's armour, alongside his colourfully worded Jerilderie letter, asks provocative questions about truth, mythmaking and nationhood. 

Who is Ned Kelly? What went wrong between Ned Kelly and the police? Why do we still talk about Ned today, and why is his armour at the Library?

Visit Ned Kelly's armour and prepare to have your convictions challenged.

Please note: Ned Kelly’s armour will be removed from display in South Rotunda on 2 October 2023 and will be installed in its new location, the Redmond Barry Reading Room, in November. We expect the armour to be off display for around a month.

Moving such a large and significant item and its case takes time, so please bear with us.  Keep an eye on this page and social media for further updates, and read our FAQs on the armour's relocation for more information.

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