NCM is situated on the lands of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people. We pay respects to them, especially their Elders and storytellers, as well as all First Peoples, nationwide. NCM acknowledges that communication technologies have a long history here, far longer than European occupation.

R+D

Industry Space

Free with museum entry

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NCM's Research and Development space showcases local industry and research innovating how humans understand, connect and co-exist with intelligent machines.

In conjunction with FRIEND, responsive and rapidly evolving interactive exhibits spotlight pioneering Australian research and development. With a focus on Human–Robot Interaction (HRI) and related fields, audiences are invited to engage directly with new concepts shaping the future of human–machine connection.

R+D offers an opportunity to experience new research as it emerges. From November 2025 to April 2026, NCM is partnering with leaders in Australian robotics, AI, and biocomputing to bring cutting-edge innovation out of the lab.

Machine Eye

What does it mean to be seen by a system that does not seek to serve, but to witness? The Machine Eye, developed by Monash University’s SensiLab, questions this established paradigm. What happens when AI becomes embodied, existing physically in the world? How differently will its observations be when they are made autonomously?

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Machine Eye - Exhibition Partners

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Previous R+D Exhibitions

R+D: A Robot of Many Minds (ended)

R+D: Cortical Labs (ended)