Parliament House

Sitting proudly on Capital Hill, Parliament House is Australia's seat of government and a must-visit for anyone curious about the nation's political heart. This striking building, opened in 1988, is built into the hill itself, with a grass-covered roof that invites you to walk above the chambers where laws are made. Inside, the grand marble foyer, the Great Hall, and the public galleries offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse into democracy in action. The building's design seamlessly blends with the landscape, symbolising the idea of government rising from the people.

Highlights & What to See

• Walk on the Roof: The grass-covered roof offers panoramic views over Lake Burley Griffin and the surrounding parliamentary triangle — a perfect photo op.
• Visit the Chambers: When Parliament is sitting, you can watch Question Time from the public galleries (free tickets required). Even when not sitting, the House of Representatives and Senate chambers are open for viewing.
• Admire the Art Collection: The building houses over 3,000 works of Australian art, including the iconic 7-metre tapestry in the Great Hall based on a painting by Arthur Boyd.
• See the Magna Carta Display: One of only four surviving 1297 copies of Magna Carta is on permanent display in the Parliament House Art Collection.
• Join a Free Guided Tour: Knowledgeable guides share stories of the building's architecture, history, and political significance — tours run daily.
• Explore the Forecourt: The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags fly alongside the Australian flag, and the mosaic forecourt represents Indigenous art and culture.

Suggested Time to Spend

Set aside at least two to three hours to fully explore Parliament House. If you're joining a guided tour (45 minutes) and want to wander the public areas, view the chambers, and take in the rooftop views, half a morning or afternoon is ideal. On sitting days, you may want extra time to secure a spot in the gallery for Question Time. The building is open daily from 9am to 5pm (except Christmas Day), and entry is free.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Old Parliament House — Just a short walk downhill, this historic building now houses the Museum of Australian Democracy, offering a fascinating contrast to the modern Parliament House.
• Lake Burley Griffin — Stroll, cycle, or hire a kayak on the lake. The Captain Cook Memorial Jet is a highlight.
• National Gallery of Australia — A 15-minute walk away, featuring an outstanding collection of Indigenous and international art.
• Australian War Memorial — A 5-minute drive or pleasant walk along Anzac Parade; a moving tribute to Australia's military history.
• Mount Ainslie Lookout — Drive or hike to the summit for the best panoramic view of the entire parliamentary triangle and beyond.

Please check official sources for current details.