The museum houses a permanent collection called Reflecting Canberra which opened on 14 February 2001.

There are several galleries located on two floors of the building, which have different exhibitions of paintings, photography or other works of art and the social history of Canberra.

The Corporation's responsibilities span across the performing and visual arts, social history and cultural heritage management.

Consisting of the Canberra Museum and Gallery, the Nolan Collection and ACT Historic Places (Lanyon, Calthorpes’ House and Mugga Mugga), ACT Museums and Galleries delivers a range of cultural services to the community in providing activities such as exhibitions, public and education programs, as well as through collecting, conserving and presenting significant aspects of the ACT's cultural heritage.

The interactive activities range from story telling, creating art, and engaging with exhibitions.