Parliament House

Perched atop Capital Hill, Parliament House is the symbolic and functional heart of Australian democracy. This architectural marvel, built largely underground to preserve the sightlines to Lake Burley Griffin and the Australian War Memorial, invites visitors to explore the corridors of power. The building's design, with its striking flagpole and grass-covered roof, seamlessly blends into the landscape, embodying the nation's democratic ideals. Inside, the grand foyer, the Great Hall with its massive tapestry, and the chambers of the House of Representatives and the Senate offer a fascinating glimpse into the workings of government.

Highlights & What to See

• The Great Hall Tapestry: One of the world's largest handwoven tapestries, inspired by Arthur Boyd's 'Bushland' painting, dominates the Great Hall.
• House of Representatives Chamber: Note the green color scheme, reflecting the British House of Commons, and the mace symbolizing royal authority.
• Senate Chamber: Contrasting red tones, reminiscent of the British House of Lords, with a striking Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flag display.
• Rooftop Lawn & Flagpole: Walk on the grass roof for panoramic views of Canberra's parliamentary triangle; the 81-metre flagpole is visible from afar.
• Art Collection: Over 6,000 works, including Indigenous art, portraits of Prime Ministers, and contemporary pieces scattered throughout the public areas.
• Queen's Terrace Café: A nice spot for a coffee break with views over the lake and surrounding mountains.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least 2–3 hours for a thorough visit. Join a free guided tour (running regularly) to access the public galleries and hear expert commentary. Add another hour if you plan to explore the art collection or have lunch at the café. Combine with a morning at the nearby National Gallery of Australia or the Australian War Memorial for a full day of Canberra's cultural highlights.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Old Parliament House – Now the Museum of Australian Democracy, just a 10-minute walk away, offering a look at the earlier seat of government.
• National Gallery of Australia – A short drive or pleasant walk, housing an impressive collection of Australian and international art.
• Lake Burley Griffin – Ideal for a stroll, bike ride, or paddleboat trip, with views back to Parliament House.
• Australian War Memorial – A moving tribute to Australia's military history, about 15 minutes by car.
• National Arboretum Canberra – A sprawling living collection of rare and endangered trees, with excellent walking trails and a café.

Please check official sources for current details.