In 1982 the museum opened a temporary site in the abandoned classrooms of the Melbourne Hebrew Congregation in South Yarra with the patronage of Sir Zelman Cowen.

The collection comprises objects of ritual, religious, historical, cultural, social and artistic significance which encompass Jewish life and history.

[3][6] Located in the Zelman Cowen Gallery, this permanent exhibition features stories which tell of generations of Australian Jews.

An exhibition which celebrates the annual cycle of festivals and holy days that make up the rhythm and form of Jewish life.

An exhibition examining the foundations of Judaism and the traditions and beliefs which have endured 4,000 years of history, and continue to bind Jews together.