Step inside the preserved chambers of Old Parliament House to trace Australia's journey from federation to modern democracy.
The Museum of Australian Democracy occupies the iconic Old Parliament House, the seat of federal government from 1927 until 1988. Its preserved Senate and House of Representatives chambers, complete with original desks and leather seating, offer an immediate sense of how decisions shaped the nation. Visitors gain insight into Australia’s voting system, landmark protests, and the evolution of parliamentary procedure through interactive displays and personal stories from politicians and activists.
Wander through King’s Hall to view portraits and hear audio recreations of historic debates. The interactive section on suffrage lets you simulate early voting processes, while the protest gallery highlights moments like the 1970s anti-Vietnam marches and the 1990s reconciliation movements. Temporary exhibitions often focus on current issues such as Indigenous representation or environmental policy, drawing direct links to the building’s legacy.
Old Parliament House sits on the southern shore of Lake Burley Griffin in central Canberra, easily reached by ACTION bus routes from the city centre or a short walk from the National Gallery. Drivers can use nearby paid parking at the National Portrait Gallery or Federation Mall. The mild weather of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) provides comfortable conditions for exploring the grounds and combining visits with outdoor sites; summer brings intense heat while winter can be crisp with fewer crowds.
These sites form a compact democracy precinct ideal for a half-day or full-day itinerary on foot.
Keep reading
Experience rotating exhibitions of Australian contemporary art in this focused ACT gallery dedicated to emerging and…
Yes, the interactive voting simulations and hands-on exhibits appeal to school-age visitors, though younger children may need adult guidance in the more text-heavy galleries.
Most visitors spend two to three hours covering the main chambers, permanent displays, and one temporary exhibition.
Free self-guided options exist with audio devices, while occasional themed tours run on weekends and during parliamentary sitting periods.
Both the Senate and House of Representatives chambers are fully accessible to the public as part of the museum experience.
Start at the museum then walk uphill to New Parliament House, or head downhill to the National Gallery and High Court for a focused democracy precinct loop.
Venture into one of the ACT’s most significant wild cave systems for an underground experience defined by narrow…
Wander shaded trails through remnant woodland and enjoy quiet views toward Lake Burley Griffin in this understated…
