Old Parliament House: A Window into Australian Democracy

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Explore Australia's political history at Old Parliament House, a captivating museum showcasing the nation's democratic journey from 1927 to 1988.

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Old Parliament House

Step back in time at Old Parliament House, the seat of Australian government from 1927 to 1988. Now a museum, explore the building where pivotal decisions shaped the nation's history and gain insights into the evolution of Australian democracy.

A brief summary to Old Parliament House

18 King George Terrace, Parkes, Australian Capital Territory, 2600, AU
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

Check the Museum of Australian Democracy's website for special events, exhibitions, and free entry days.
Take a guided tour to hear stories of the people and events that shaped Australian democracy.
Explore the Old Parliament House Gardens, a serene retreat with stunning rose displays.
Allow ample time to explore the building's original chambers, offices, and corridors.

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Getting There

Walking

Old Parliament House is located within Canberra's Parliamentary Triangle. If you are already within the Triangle, such as at Parliament House or the National Gallery, walking is a straightforward option. Follow the pathways and signage.
Public Transport

Many bus routes service Old Parliament House. From Canberra city, routes 57 and 58 stop near the Treasury Building on Langton Crescent, a five-minute walk away. Rapid routes 2 and 6 stop at the John Gorton Building on Parkes Place, a six-minute walk. A single bus fare within Canberra typically costs $2 - $5.
Taxi/Ride Share

Taxi and rideshare services like Uber and Didi can drop you off directly at the front of Old Parliament House. A short taxi trip from Canberra city center will cost approximately $13 - $16.
Parking

Paid, short-stay parking is available at the front and on either side of Old Parliament House. Paid, long-stay spaces are located behind Old Parliament House on Queen Victoria Terrace and next to the Treasury and John Gorton Buildings, all within a five-minute walk. Parking can be paid for via the EasyPark app or credit card. Wilson Parking also offers parking at 1 Queen Victoria Terrace. Hourly parking rates vary.

Discover more about Old Parliament House

Old Parliament House, formerly known as Provisional Parliament House, served as the কেন্দ্র of Australian political life from 1927 to 1988. It was here that the nation grappled with significant events, from declarations of war to landmark social reforms. Today, it stands as the Museum of Australian Democracy (MoAD), offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the building's original chambers, offices, and corridors and delve into the stories that shaped the country. The building itself is an example of Inter-war Stripped Classical architecture, designed by John Smith Murdoch. Its design reflects the austerity of the time, with a symmetrical and graceful structure set within a Garden City landscape. Inside, visitors can admire the formal details, including decorative skylights, elegant pendant lights, and timber wall panelling. Explore the Prime Minister's Suite, sit in the Cabinet decision-making room, and discover the chambers where Australia's laws were debated and passed. The museum features exhibitions, tours, and programs that celebrate Australian democracy, offering insights into the past, present, and future of the nation. The Old Parliament House Gardens also provide a serene retreat, with stunning displays of patterned rose beds and vibrant annuals.