Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre has welcomed 13 million visitors, a major milestone in inspiring generations of Australians through hands-on science engagement.
Since officially opening in 1988 the Questacon Centre has been sparking curiosity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and has become a national icon and must-see destination for families, school groups and tourists.
Seaforth Public School have become the 13 millionth visitors to walk through the doors of the iconic Centre.
In 2024 Questacon hosted 1,608 schools from across Australia, making up 24.5% of the total annual visitors to the Centre. School visits provide hands-on, interactive learning experiences outside the classroom, helping students connect scientific concepts with the real world.
Nearly 1 in 6 schools from across the nation visited Questacon last year, including 557 schools from regional and remote Australia. For many young Australians, a school trip to Questacon is a formative moment that shapes their understanding of science and the Nation's capital.
As Australia looks to the future, Questacon continues to play a critical part in the national effort to build a scientifically engaged society and a skilled future STEM workforce.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres:
"Welcoming 13 million visitors is a remarkable achievement that shows the strength of Questacon's exhibitions and programs.
"We need young people to see themselves as the scientists, technologists, engineers, and problem solvers of the future. Questacon inspires all Australians, but particularly our school children, and plays a vital role in encouraging them along that journey.
"Questacon's much-loved place in the national imagination demonstrates the enduring power of science and its power to inspire curiosity."
Quotes attributable to Questacon Director, Jo White
"Celebrating 13 million visitors to Questacon is a testament to the Centre's enduring appeal across generations.
"Whether you came here as a child on a school excursion, brought your own kids to explore the exhibits, or are visiting for the first time, Questacon is a place and memory that stays with you.
"At Questacon we bring science to life and we are proud to reach this milestone. We are grateful to the millions of Australians and international visitors who have walked through the doors to experience what Questacon has to offer."
