How we work

We are the largest team of specialist conservators in Australia

Our teams in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Canberra and Brisbane are professional problem-solvers, working collaboratively, pragmatically and sustainably. Guided by internationally recognised standards and professional codes of ethics and practice, we manage everything from individual items to large, complex projects. We respond to changing priorities and can quickly mobilise for emergency events.

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What makes ICS different

ICS is a leader in the cultural heritage sector, and at the forefront of high-quality, sustainable conservation.

Our expert conservators, collections management specialists and built heritage project managers solve complex issues for museums and galleries, governments, corporates, and private collectors.

We strive to provide our clients with peace of mind, knowing their most precious items are in safe and experienced hands. Our approach is underpinned by years of experience, highly developed technical skills and an innovate and pragmatic perspective.

We are climate aware and are actively managing our carbon emissions to become a net zero business.

A word from Julian Bickersteth

Chief Executive Officer

“I am passionate about the conservation of cultural heritage and the vital part it plays in connecting our past with the present. I feel so fortunate to be spending my career in this highly rewarding profession and very diverse sector. It is such a privilege to work with clients who share the goal of preserving our heritage for the future.”

A word from Julian Bickersteth AO

Chief Executive Officer

Our environment

In ICS labs, on all our work sites, and in our methods and materials, we are taking practical measures to contribute to the worldwide goal of mitigating catastrophic global warming. We continue to find plenty of opportunities to save energy, reduce emissions, and make our workplace a little greener. Some of our initiatives include:

recycling almost all office and lab materials, along with composting
energy efficient lighting
use of green solvents
safe storage and disposal of hazardous substances
regularly maintaining vehicles, plant and equipment to reduce air pollution and maximise efficiency
preparing Environmental Risk Management Plans to assess and minimise environmental impacts

For more details, download our Environmental Sustainability Statement

Talk to ICS for your next conservation project

Our partners

We value building long-term client relationships, and the two-way benefits that flow.

ICS is proud to be the formal conservation partner of important cultural organisations.

Partner relationships allow us to understand and respond to ongoing and emerging conservation issues. As we get to know the collection and its priorities, we are able to provide the most appropriate services as and when they are required.

New England Regional Art Museum

Conservation Partner

The New England Regional Art Museum is home to a significant art collection of Australian and international artists.

White Rabbit Collection

Preferred Provider

The White Rabbit collection includes more than 2,000 works and showcases a significant collection of Chinese contemporary art.

Artbank

Conservation Partner

Artbank is a unique and successful Federal Government visual arts initiative that supports the Australian contemporary art sector.

National Trust of Australia (NSW and WA)

Official Conservator

The National Trust of Australia manages heritage properties holding substantial collections, many of which are open to the public.

Professional affiliations

ICS is associated through work and membership with many prestigious national and international organisations dedicated to the conservation of cultural heritage for future generations.

Julian Bickersteth AO, CEO of ICS, is the current President of the International Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (IIC). IIC is the key non-government international institution that facilitates collaborative partnerships for national and international conservation and cultural heritage efforts across the world.