Opening hours
Tuesday and Wednesday by appointment
The Post Office Gallery is open to the public and entry is free. There is ramp access to the front door.
About the gallery
The Post Office Gallery may have a grand, traditional facade, but step inside and you'll find a contemporary art space that houses a diverse program of exhibitions. We show work by Arts Academy students and alumni, Federation University staff, and a range of local, emerging and well-known artists. We also regularly exhibit selected pieces from our historical and permanent art collections.
We're always keen to grow and strengthen our art collection. Are you looking to rehouse any artworks or materials that relate to the history and heritage of Ballarat or Federation University? If so, find out how to donate them.
Now showing
Thinking of Place IV: Fleet
17 April to 17 July 2026
Eleven printmaking groups from across the globe use ship motifs to symbolise journeys, transience and fostering cultural connections.
Supporting our students
The Post Office Gallery isn’t just a public art space – it’s also an important part of student learning at Federation.
We host at least two student exhibitions each year. 'Benchmark' showcases new work from the Bachelor of Visual Arts and Bachelor of Secondary Education cohorts. The 'End of Year Exhibition (EYE)' features graduating students from the Bachelor of Visual Arts (Ballarat) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (Gippsland).
Exhibiting publicly allows students to build on their studies through mentoring and hands-on gallery experience. They learn how to prepare and present their work in a professional setting and gain valuable insight into contemporary gallery practice. Showing work also encourages them to consider how their art is experienced and understood by others.
Our heritage
The building that stands today was erected in 1864, towards the end of the gold rush. The Italianate-style ornate design features are indicative of the city's wealth at the time – and the importance of postal communication. The building was expanded in 1871 to include services such as the treasury and telegraph office. In 2002, it became part of Federation University’s Arts Academy.
School visits
Suitable for VCE art classes. Runs for 1–2 hours.
Suitable for VCE art classes. Runs for 1–2 hours.
Suitable for Year 12 art classes. Runs for 1–2 hours.
Contact us
If you have any questions about the Post Office Gallery, please email pogallery@federation.edu.au or phone (03) 5327 8615 (Monday to Thursday).