Old Parliament House

Fast Facts

Name: The Australian Museum of Democracy at Old Parliament House, previously known as Old Parliament House.

Location: King George Terrace, Parkes, Canberra ACT 2600

Opening hours: Open daily 9am - 5pm | Closed Christmas Day.

Description: The Australian Museum of Democracy at Old Parliament House is Australia's first parliament house for its federal government, which operated from 1927 until 1988. Indoor activity.

Price Guide: Free entry

Phone: 02 6270 8222

Come to the Australian Museum of Democracy at Old Parliament House for an insight into Australia's political history, the way democracy has impacted on the nation and the building's fine 1920's architecture.

Upon arriving at the centre, you will discover more about how democratic principles relate to all aspects of life whether it is in politics, family or your local community.

It's a great place to learn about some of the most influential people of Australia's time. People who helped build the nation's democracy such as Catherine Helen Spence and Caroline Chisholm who fought for the rights of women and also Eddie Mabo who fought for Indigenous rights to their land.

Originally called the Old Parliament House, it's known as where some of the most important political decisions have been made. When you arrive you can go on a tour of the original Parliamentary Chambers and the Prime Minister's Suite at the Australian Museum of Democracy.

There are plenty of exhibitions, programs and tours to enjoy at the Old Parliament House in Canberra. Come and see permanent exhibitions 'Living Democracy: the power of the people', 'Australian Democracy: more than 2000 years in the making' and 'Prime Ministers of Australia'.

For your education, you can also attend the two interactive decision theatres gives insight into how decisions are made in Australia's parliamentary democracy, and the impact of those decisions on the everyday lives of Australians.