 | Canberra Old Parliament House Reviews | Tips 1 - 10 of 16 |  |
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When Parliament moved to Canberra in 1927, it opened in the 'temporary' building now known as Old Parliament House, which was used until 1988. This much-loved building has enormous character and now contains a museum and portrait gallery. It was built here, mid-point between Capital Hill and the lake, to allow space for a permanent Parliament House to be built at the lakeside (as set out in Burley Griffin's plan for Canberra), an idea later promoted by Sir Robert Menzies, Australia's Prime Minister in the 1950s and early 1960s, who envisaged the Queen arriving by Royal Barge to open Parliament by the lake. There are many political stories relating to the old building which, because it was crowded, forced politicians, the media and the public into each other's company. That led to political intrigues, backroom chatter and leaks of information, and general merriment. The heritage-listed building still has its 1920s furniture and you can sit in the old Parliamentary Chambers which were the scene of many fiery debates. Kids can hunt for clues, with the aid of their familes, and even can put on period costumes. If you are interested in gardens, look at the extensive rose gardens at the sides of the building. This has been a winner in several recent National tourism awards. And the title for this tip? It comes from one of the more famous speeches in Australian politics, given on the front steps in 1975 when the Whitlam Government was dissolved by the Governor General - the Queen's Man. The building has a cafe and shop and is open daily 0900-1700, free guided tours are available (and recommended) and there are special displays. Entrance charges are $2A adults, $1A children/concession, $5A family. Main PhotoView from across the lawns and fountains Second PhotoThe view from above gives some perspective Phone: 02 6270 8222Directions: Between New Parliament House and the lake. An easy walk from any of the other buildings in the Parliamentary Triangle. You can reach it on bus routes 31,34,36 and 39.Website: http://www.oph.gov.au/
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| | | | Old Parliament House: Enjoy the History | Tip Rating:  | | | | |
Old Parliament House does not really looks like an old parliament house, more like a mansion. It is a white beauty which gives the most important axis of the capital city the romantic touch. It is located between the War Memorial and New Parliament House and is a heritage place of outstanding importance. This building was planned as a provisional building that should serve for only 50 years, until a new house could be built. So the architect John Smith Murdoch chose the so-called "stripped classical" style, using simple geometric forms. Instead of looking grandiose it was modest and functional. But it still looked nice - and now, compared to newer buildings around, it looks like a little palace. Construction began in August 1923 and took until May 1927 and cost about £600,000. It was inaugurated on 9 May by the Duke of York, the later King George VI, accompanied by the then Prime Minister Stanley Bruce. Depite several extensions the building was already too small in the 1960s (no wonder, as it was designed to house 300 people but in fact had to cope with over 4000). But it had to serve 61 years until 1988 when the new building was ready for use. It has nothing of the darkness of the new house. On contrary, it is filled with natural light, floating to the inside through big windows and skylights. An interesting fact is that the original designer of Canberra, Walter Burley Griffin, had intended Parliament to be built on the lakeshore but this plan was dismissed. Open daily (except Christmas Day) from 9am to 5pm in winter and until 8pm in summer; admission $2. Free parking. Old Parliament House also hosts Australia’s National Portrait Gallery and has a nice restaurant. Phone: (02) 6270 8222Website: http://www.oph.gov.au/ Other Contact: info@oph.gov.au
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