The genesis of the art collection came with the appointment of the inaugural art curator, Caroline Field, in 2016. Since identifying, documenting and cataloguing the existing pieces, she has built a collection of more than 1200 works: paintings, works on paper, ceramics, sculpture, textiles, mosaics, gold and silversmithing, glass and decorative arts.

The university is committed to the belief that art is for everyone, so many works are on display at its eight Australian campuses and its Rome Campus. The concept of 'curated spaces' brings art directly to the people - to staff, students and visitors. Much of the collection is integrated into the university environment, enhancing campus aesthetics and fostering educational and reflective experiences for its viewers.

The collection is also accessible digitally through this site and the Australian online collections database, e-Hive. A series of three illustrated books also offers critical and reflective windows into collection highlights by leading academics, curators and arts writers.