Parliament House | Canberra

Parliament House – The Heart of Australian Democracy

Parliament House in Canberra is the central place of government in Australia. Situated atop Capital Hill, this iconic building is where the Australian Parliament meets to make decisions that affect the entire nation. With its striking architecture, rich history, and public access to the political process, Parliament House is a must-see landmark in the nation’s capital.

Why Visit Parliament House?

Political and Historical Significance: As the seat of Australia’s government, Parliament House is where laws are debated and passed, and where the country’s future is shaped. Visiting this site allows you to understand Australia’s democratic system and the role of Parliament in shaping the nation.

Architectural Wonder: The building itself is a modern masterpiece, combining stunning design with environmental sustainability. Visitors can appreciate both the architectural beauty and the symbolic elements that reflect Australia’s identity.

Interactive Experience: Parliament House offers interactive tours, exhibitions, and the opportunity to sit in on debates, providing visitors with an engaging and informative experience about the political process and Australian governance.

Key Attractions at Parliament House

1. The Building and Architecture

Parliament House is an architectural marvel, designed by the renowned architect Romaldo Giurgola and officially opened in 1988. It stands as a symbol of Australia’s democratic ideals and national identity.

Design and Features: The building is built into the hill, with grass-covered rooftops that blend harmoniously with the landscape. The design emphasizes transparency, with glass walls symbolizing openness in government. The large central hall leads to the Senate and House of Representatives chambers, and the building includes vast public spaces, works of art, and memorials.

The Roof: The roof of Parliament House is one of its most remarkable features, with a flagpole that rises 81 meters above the building. The Australian flag that flies atop it is the largest of its kind in the country. Visitors can walk up the roof terraces for panoramic views of Canberra, including Lake Burley Griffin and the Australian War Memorial.

2. The Senate and House of Representatives Chambers

Parliament House is home to two chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives, each playing a crucial role in the legislative process.

Senate Chamber: The Senate, consisting of 76 Senators, represents the states and territories of Australia. Visitors can observe the Senate at work during sittings or learn about the history of Australian lawmaking through exhibits and educational materials.

House of Representatives Chamber: The House of Representatives, consisting of 151 Members, represents the people of Australia. The green furnishings in the chamber symbolize the role of the people in the country’s democracy. Visitors can watch debates, question time, and observe the day-to-day workings of the Australian government.

3. The Great Hall

The Great Hall is the main public area in Parliament House, and it is where important events, speeches, and official ceremonies are held.

Art and Design: The Great Hall is famous for its stunning hand-woven woolen carpet, which is one of the largest in the world. The ceiling is decorated with an intricate design featuring indigenous Australian motifs. The walls are adorned with notable Australian artworks, creating a connection between the nation’s past and present.

Public Access: The Great Hall is accessible to visitors, and its grandeur is often a highlight of a tour of Parliament House.

4. The Parliamentary Triangle and Surrounding Gardens

Parliament House is set within the Parliamentary Triangle, a precinct that includes other significant government buildings like the High Court of Australia, Old Parliament House, and the National Library of Australia.

Gardens and Lawns: Surrounding the building are meticulously maintained gardens and lawns, which are perfect for leisurely walks or picnics. The gardens feature a variety of native Australian plants and provide a peaceful atmosphere amidst the political hubbub.

Reflection and Sculpture: The area also includes several sculptures and memorials, providing further insight into Australia’s culture, history, and heritage.

5. The Memorial Courtyard

Located at the entrance of Parliament House, the Memorial Courtyard features several significant sculptures that reflect Australia’s history and culture. One notable feature is The National Memorial to the Australian Soldier, which commemorates the service and sacrifice of Australian military personnel.

Interactive and Guided Tours

The Australian Parliament House offers guided tours, which are an excellent way to learn about the building’s history, architecture, and how the government operates. These tours are free of charge and provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the building and the Australian political process.

Self-Guided Audio Tours: For those who prefer to explore on their own, self-guided audio tours are available, allowing visitors to explore the building at their own pace.

Question Time and Debates: If Parliament is in session, visitors can sit in the galleries and watch the debates, ask questions, and observe the parliamentary process in action. Question Time is a particularly popular feature, where Members of Parliament question the government on current issues.

Events at Parliament House

Parliament House is not just a place of business; it is also the venue for important public events and ceremonies.

National Ceremonies: The building hosts significant national events, such as the Opening of Parliament, state banquets, and visits from foreign dignitaries.

Public Talks and Lectures: Various events, such as talks and exhibitions, are often held in the building to educate the public about Australia’s history and governance.

ANZAC Day Commemorations: Parliament House is also a key site during national commemorations, especially ANZAC Day, when the public comes together to honor the service and sacrifice of military personnel.

Best Time to Visit Parliament House

Year-Round: Parliament House is open to visitors throughout the year, and the building itself is equally impressive in any season. However, for those interested in witnessing parliamentary proceedings, it’s best to visit during the sitting period (usually from February to June and August to December).

Special Events: Visiting during key national celebrations such as Australia Day or ANZAC Day can provide a unique experience, as these are important times for national reflection and remembrance.

Fun Facts About Parliament House

Flagpole: The flagpole on top of Parliament House is 81 meters tall, which is higher than the Sydney Opera House's sails.

Sustainable Design: Parliament House is known for its environmentally friendly design, with a solar energy system and rainwater collection systems in place.

Public Access: Unlike many other national buildings, Parliament House is open to the public, and visitors can freely wander the halls, observe debates, and even meet their elected officials.

Final Thoughts – Why Visit Parliament House

Parliament House is much more than just a government building; it is a symbol of Australia’s democracy and its commitment to transparency, inclusion, and public participation. Visitors can explore the building’s incredible design, witness the workings of government, and engage with Australia’s political process firsthand. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or someone interested in the political system, a visit to Parliament House provides a memorable and educational experience.