When complete in 2008, the 8 storey Collections and Research Building will house some of the Australian Museum's 80 research scientists and 14.5 million specimens.

The building is the first phase of Johnson Pilton Walker’s strategic Masterplan to be implemented, and the first significant building project undertaken at the Australian Museum for more than 20 years.

The external design of the new building responds to the heights, massing, materials and detailing of the surroundings.

The contemporary building extends the main museum complex in a way that is clearly of its time, but also respectful of the past and the significant heritage of the existing complex of buildings.