Parliament House

Parliament House in Canberra is the meeting place of the Parliament of Australia and serves as the principal seat of federal legislative power. Designed by Romaldo Giurgola and opened in 1988, the building replaced the earlier Old Parliament House and combines chambers for the House of Representatives and the Senate with public galleries and civic spaces.

Key visitor features include the Great Hall, public exhibition spaces, and the building’s grassed roof which is open for visitors to walk on and offers views across Canberra. The complex also includes offices for parliamentarians, committee rooms, and ceremonial spaces used for state events.

The design intentionally integrates the building into Capital Hill, with much of the main structure set below the surrounding landscape so that the grassy forecourt remains a civic promenade. Parliament House is located on Capital Hill in the centre of Canberra and is a short drive from the city’s central business district.

• Opening date and architect: Opened in 1988 to replace the Old Parliament House, it was designed by architect Romaldo Giurgola and inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II on 9 May 1988.
• Public access and flag mast: The building is set into Capital Hill with a grass-covered roof that is publicly accessible, and a prominent flag mast sits above the structure as a visible city landmark.

What to See #

• House of Representatives chamber: The chamber of the House of Representatives, where the lower house of the Australian Parliament conducts debates and votes.
• Senate chamber: The Senate chamber, containing the upper house seating and facilities for senators.
• Great Hall and public spaces: The Great Hall and public foyers, used for ceremonies, exhibitions, and visitor orientation within the building complex.