Scott Morrison outlines $48.7 million package to celebrate James Cook's first voyage to Australia

Scott Morrison, Prime Minister, and member for Cook, in Sydney's south, has outlined a year of celebration to mark James Cook's first voyage to Australia.

The PM launched the details in far north Queensland, with $5.5 million to support the Cooktown 2020 Festival.

And Canberra will give the National Maritime Museum just on $7 million for the Endeavour replica's circumnavigation of the continent, next year, the 250th anniversary of Cook's arrival.

It'll host a series of events from Darwin, to Hobart, and Brisbane to Bunbury, in WA.

Mr Morrison said the anniversary would give new generations an insight into Capt. Cook, his ship, and the experiences of Indigenous Australians.

"We want to help Australians better understand Captain Cook's historic voyage and its legacy for exploration, science, and reconciliation," he said.

"That voyage is the reason Australia is what it is today and it's important we take the opportunity to reflect on it.

"We will ensure that Australians, young and old, see firsthand the legacy."

Funding for next year's voyage will come from an existing $48.7 million package set aside for the anniversary.

Mr Morrison told Cairns radio, the replica would repeat Cook’s circumnavigation.

Trouble is, Cook never sailed around what we now know as Australia.

He only explored the east coast.