Introducing the Robert Menzies Institute

Established in 2021, the Robert Menzies Institute is a centre promoting the study of 20th century Australian history through the life and legacy of Sir Robert Menzies, Australia’s longest-serving prime minister.

Located in the historic Old Quadrangle of the University of Melbourne, the Institute has a unique partnership with the University supporting research, education and public engagement in Australian history.

We are a living bridge between the University and the public, bringing together history, civic life, and student development through our exhibitions, conferences, events and weekly podcast, Afternoon Light.

Introducing The Robert Menzies Institute
About Sir Robert Menzies

 

Upcoming Events

Schools Program

Menzies Early Career Network for University Students

Current Exhibition

Become a Member

Our Research Program

Afternoon Light Podcast

Our Featured Podcast

‘Above All Else Patriots’, Battling for Australian Liberalism

Robert Menzies Institute CEO Georgina Downer talks to Tony Abbott, one of just four Leaders of the Liberal Party of Australia to win government from Opposition.

Listen to Australia's Leading History Podcast
View more episodes

Latest News

27 Feb, 2026

Pauline Hanson’s rural GP plan a dose of old world socialism

Georgina Downer delivers speech on approaches to history.
26 Feb, 2026

History Is Not a Therapy Session: What 250 Conversations Reveal About Australia’s Past, Power and Democracy

Kellie Sloane launches The Menzies Legacy in Sydney
25 Feb, 2026

NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane MP launches The Menzies Legacy in Sydney

Jarrod Bleijie launching The Menzies Legacy
25 Feb, 2026

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie launches The Menzies Legacy

Democracy is a living spirit
26 Jan, 2026

Democracy is a living spirit, and ours needs tending

Policy Paper: Conditions for a Successful Democracy
15 Jan, 2026

Policy Paper Release: Conditions for a Successful Democracy

View all news

Upcoming Events

Featured: Michael Gawenda on Afternoon Light Live
Webinar | Michael Gawenda on Security, Identity and Belonging: Being Jewish in Australia Today
  • 16 Mar, 2026
  • 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Read more Register
Featured: Michael Gawenda on Afternoon Light Live
Webinar | Michael Gawenda on Security, Identity and Belonging: Being Jewish in Australia Today
  • 16 Mar, 2026
  • 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Read more Register
Professor Leila Brammer on Afternoon Light Live March 2026
Webinar | Professor Leila Brammer on Civility and Conviction: Let’s argue more but argue better
  • 16 Mar, 2026
  • 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Read more Register
Professor Leila Brammer on Afternoon Light Live March 2026
Webinar | Professor Leila Brammer on Civility and Conviction: Let’s argue more but argue better
  • 16 Mar, 2026
  • 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Read more Register
Andrew Hastie on ANZUS at 75
2026 ANZAC Oration: The Hon Andrew Hastie MP | ANZUS at 75: Inheriting Sacrifice, Shaping The Future
  • 23 Apr, 2026
  • 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Read more Register
Andrew Hastie on ANZUS at 75
2026 ANZAC Oration: The Hon Andrew Hastie MP | ANZUS at 75: Inheriting Sacrifice, Shaping The Future
  • 23 Apr, 2026
  • 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Read more Register
View all Events

Our Latest Release

Our Latest Release

The Menzies Legacy: Ideals, Change, Procession, 1960s and Beyond

‘The Menzies Legacy: Ideals, Change, Procession, 1960s and Beyond’ is the last of a four-volume history of Menzies and his world. The book features contributions by 28 leading historians and commentators based on conferences convened by the Robert Menzies Institute at the University of Melbourne.

Discover Australian History Today
Our Books

Ways to Support the Robert Menzies Institute ↓

Donate to the RMI

Become an RMI Member

Sponsor a Program

Sign up to our newsletter

Sign up for our monthly newsletter to hear the latest news and receive information about upcoming events.