Gallery of Modern Art

Brisbane’s Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) is Australia’s largest gallery dedicated to modern and contemporary art, a sleek riverside landmark that pulses with creative energy. Since opening in 2006, GOMA has become the cultural heart of South Bank, drawing visitors with blockbuster exhibitions, thought-provoking installations, and a program that champions both international heavyweights and emerging Australian talent. The building itself—all glass, steel and angular lines—feels like a sculptural statement, while its sprawling galleries and outdoor spaces invite you to linger.

Highlights & What to See

• Blockbuster exhibitions – GOMA regularly hosts major touring shows (think Picasso, Warhol or Yayoi Kusama), often with a distinctive Australian twist.
• Australian and Indigenous art – The permanent collection shines a spotlight on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, with works that challenge and inspire.
• Cinémathèque – A dedicated film programme screens cult classics, documentaries and artist films in a intimate 150-seat theatre.
• Children’s Art Centre – An interactive wonderland where kids can create their own masterpieces, making GOMA surprisingly family-friendly.
• Riverfront café and sculpture garden – Grab a flat white and wander the outdoor installations overlooking the Brisbane River—perfect for a sunny afternoon.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors need around two hours to explore the main galleries at a relaxed pace. If you’re catching a film at the Cinémathèque or diving deep into a special exhibition, budget three to four hours. The café and sculpture garden are lovely for a breather, so don’t rush. GOMA is free to enter (special exhibitions may have a fee), and it’s easy to combine with a stroll through South Bank Parklands.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• South Bank – Right next door, this lively precinct has the man-made Streets Beach, lush parklands, and plenty of riverside dining.
• Story Bridge – A short walk or ferry ride away; you can climb it for panoramic city views or simply admire it from the water.
• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – A 15-minute drive south; cuddle a koala and feed kangaroos in the world’s oldest koala sanctuary.
• Queen Street Mall – Brisbane’s main shopping strip, a 10-minute walk across the Victoria Bridge, with everything from boutiques to department stores.

Please check official sources for current details.