In real life: inventors, innovators and opportunists

Overview

Celebrate Australian innovation at National Archives' latest exhibition in Canberra, In real life: inventors, innovators and opportunists.

Explore the history of Australian invention, from First Nations creativity to 150 years of patents, designs and trademark registrations.

See life-changing inventions, iconic designs and household brand names with original design drawings and trademarks from the national archival collection alongside their real-life counterparts.

Australians from all walks of life have pursued their ideas in the laboratory, at the drafting table and in the humble backyard shed.

Learn about the innovators behind advances such as the baby capsule, spray-on skin and the stump-cam.

Discover the origins of everyday products and national icons such as the Victa lawnmower, Hills Hoist and 'goon bag'.

From pedestrian crossing buttons to dual flush toilets, see how the Australian Government played a vital role in supporting inventions and designs that you regularly see, hear, use – and flush.

Spark your own imagination and be inspired by stories of bold dreams, determination and Australian ingenuity.

This exhibition is supported by the National Collecting Institutions Touring and Outreach Program, an Australian Government program aiming to improve access to the national collections for all Australians.

Cover image: Bill Onus teaches the Republic of Korea's Junior Red Cross Deputy Director how to throw a boomerang, Point Lonsdale, Victoria 1957. NAA: A1501, A760/2