In response to community concerns about proposed changes at the Museum, the Premier’s Review Panel was established in April 2024 and chaired by the then Chief Executive of the Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Damien Walker, with expert membership of the Chief Scientist for South Australia Professor Craig Simmons, and Chief Executive Officer of the Queensland Museum Dr Jim Thompson PSM. The Panel reviewed the proposed changes and engaged with stakeholders to explore options for the Museum’s future.

The Panel’s Report was handed down in September 2024 and made six recommendations aimed at building a solid, collaborative governance framework for the Museum, improving stakeholder engagement and supporting future reforms:

1.    Cease all proposed changes

2.    Develop a new Strategic Vision and Plan

3.    Develop a Research Strategy and explore sustainable research models

4.    Develop a Collections Management Plan

5.    Investigate financial and commercial opportunities

6.    Conduct an asset management and infrastructure study

You can read the full report.

The Museum is currently in the process of implementing the recommendations and has released the new Strategic Plan for 2025-2030, that has been informed by an extensive consultation process with feedback from staff, stakeholders and the broader community. 

This plan focuses on strengthening the Museum’s contribution to the community through scientific and cultural research strategies aligned with collections management, exhibitions, education and outreach programs, to forge a bold path forward. 

Insights gathered from the consultation process can be viewed via the Consultation Report which summarises the value feedback received during the community and stakeholder engagement. 

Work is now underway to implement recommendations 3 to 6. 

For more information, contact us on strategy@samuseum.sa.gov.au