About Old Parliament House

The heart of political history

Built in the middle of a sheep paddock that is now part of the Parliamentary Triangle, Old Parliament House was at the centre of Australian democracy during its formative years. Significant events, protests, meetings and decisions in Australia's history unfolded within the walls and grounds of Old Parliament House.

Designed to make parliament possible

Only ever intended as a ‘provisional’ parliament, Old Parliament House had to grow with the needs of Australia’s evolving democracy. From a modest initial staff of 300 people, it was accommodating over 3,000 people by the end of its life. This was only possible thanks to remarkable design, engineering and architecture, and the creativity of its caretakers.

Take yourself back in time

Alongside exhibitions that ask the how and why of democracy, MoAD has opened many original rooms for everyone to explore. Immaculate attention to detail and heritage objects bring spaces to life. Roam through the Prime Minister’s Suite, seat yourself in the decision-making war room of Cabinet, or discover the very chambers where Australia’s nation-making laws were debated and passed.