Half robot and half human face

Born or Built?
Our Robotic Future


From 29 November 2025 until 17 May 2026

Recommended for all ages

Queensland Museum Tropics. Map

Adult $12.50
Child (3-15 years) $10.00
Concession* $10.00
Family (2 adults + 2 kids or 1 adult + 3 kids) $40.00
Group (10+ people pre-booked online) $10.00 per person
School Groups $8.00 per person

*on presentation of Concession Card.
Prices include GST.

About

Are we born or are we built? What makes us human in a world of robots, artificial intelligence (AI) and ever-evolving technology?

Born or Built? Our Robotic Future is an inspiring and interactive exhibition for the whole family that explores the fascinating relationships between humans and machines. 

Enter the intriguing world of robots and explore the big questions about how technology is shaping our lives and what it really means to be human in a society where machines are becoming more like us. 

Through hands-on activities and thought-provoking displays visitors can test how intelligent AI really is in conversation, discover whether robots can read emotions and even share their thoughts on the big ideas that are influencing tomorrow’s world.

From prosthetics and implants that enhance the human body to brainwave-reading, this next-gen exhibition encourages families to play, learn and explore technology together in a fun and interactive way.

Whether you’re a curious kid, a tech-loving teen or an adult fascinated by the future, Born or Built? will ignite wonder and spark both exciting and important conversations for that continue long after your visit. 

Born or Built? Our Robotic Future is a travelling exhibition from Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre.

Switch on your curiosity with our exciting program of events designed to enhance your Born or Built? museum experience - coming soon!

Subscribe to stay up to date on when new events and programs are released.

In today’s world, where technology is seamlessly woven into our daily lives, the boundaries between human intelligence and machine learning are becoming increasingly blurred. As these technologies evolve, so do the questions they raise for students - not just how they work, but why we create them, and what that means for our future.

Born or Built? is a thought-provoking, hands-on exhibition that invites students and educators to explore the fascinating intersections between humans and machines. Through immersive, interactive experiences, students will engage with some of the big questions of our time: What makes a face human? Can a robot read your mind—or your emotions? Could a machine ever truly be like us? 

The exhibition offers opportunities for inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and meaningful discussion across both STEM and HASS curriculum. Whether you're exploring the basics of robotics or diving into the ethics of artificial intelligence, Born or Built? provides a unique platform to spark curiosity and classroom connections.

Plan your school excursion today and empower your students to think deeply about the technology shaping their world, and their role in shaping the future of technology.  

Book your school visit

Supporting Resources

Coming soon. 

Bookings

Bookings are essential for all school and children’s group visits. We recommend you book as far in advance as possible to secure your preferred visit date and time. 

A discounted ticket price of $8 per student is available for the following Self-Led group bookings: 
-   School Group (prep – Year 12) – 10+ students
-   Children’s Group (children aged 3 – 15 years) – 10+ children

School’s experiencing socio-educational disadvantage (ICSEA below 1000) can book discounted exhibition tickets.

Our team also offers a paid Facilitated Introduction option to enhance your group’s visit to the exhibition. Please reach out to qmt.learning@qm.qld.gov.au to find out more.

Teacher Preview Event

We're inviting all teachers and education staff to a free after-hours teacher preview of Born or Built? Our Robotic Future.

Bring your colleagues and explore the fascinating intersection of humans, machines and technology. Take this opportunity to preview the exhibition, discover fresh inspiration for the classroom, and enjoy an evening immersed in all the museum has to offer. Our team will be on hand to answer all your questions and if you’re ready, help you plan your 2026 excursions. Drinks and nibbles provided. 

Date: Friday 5 December 
Time: 4pm – 6pm
Cost: Free 
RSVP here

Free visit for teachers

We invite teachers, early years educators and group supervisors to preview the museum prior to your visit to plan and prepare for your group’s learning experiences. As this exhibition is ticketed, entry fees apply for family members and accompanying guests. Email qmt.learning@qm.qld.gov.au to arrange your free visit.

 

Born or Built? Season Passes

Season Passes are strictly limited, get yours before they sell out!

Inclusions:

  • Unlimited entry to Born or Built?
  • Entry into our December and January school holiday programs 

Season Pass Prices

Season Pass Adult  $30
Season Pass Concession  $25
Season Pass Child  $25
Season Pass Family of 4  $100

Please note:

  • Season Pass holders do not need to book specific entry times – simply visit the museum with your Season Pass ready to show at the exhibition entry.
  • During peak periods, there may be a short queue and wait times before entry.
  • Season Passes do not include entry to special events. Tickets for these events must be purchased separately.
  • Season Passes are not transferrable and are strictly available to be used by the purchaser and nominated family members.

Stay in the loop!

Get the latest exhibition, events and programming activities at Queensland Museum Tropics every month, with our free eNews straight to your inbox!