The museum is situated on the remains of the first Government House that was built in 1788, later deemed inadequate in 1832 and demolished in 1845–1846.

Sydney's convict era is explored in a giant showcase of goods and chattels recovered from more than 25 archaeological digs.

[10][5][6] The public entrance to the museum is via First Government House Place in Bridge Street, Sydney.

[10] The outline of Phillip's residence, the first Government House, is marked out on the plaza with inlaid stone.

The remains of the drains and privies are shown in their original context, along with other archeological artifacts, in glass display cases built into the pavement of the forecourt.