Overview
Australian Parliament House is the meeting place of the Parliament of Australia. It is located in Canberra, the capital of Australia. The building was designed to house the federal parliament and its support departments.
It is the seat of the Australian Government and a symbol of Australian democracy.
Location
Address
Parliament Drive, Canberra, Australia Capital Authority
Neighborhood: Parliamentary Triangle
Coordinates
-35.280900, 149.124400
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild
- • Spring blossoms
- • Outdoor guided tours
summer
Warm to hot
- • Extended summer hours
- • Outdoor concerts
autumn
Mild to cool
- • Autumn foliage
- • Indoor exhibits
winter
Cool to cold
- • Indoor exhibits
- • Holiday decorations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Free entry
- Security screening
- Guided tours available
- Check for closures
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low to moderate
- • Security screening
- • Large walking areas
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards, Mobile pay
Currency
Australian Dollar (AUD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate or offensive clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not required for general entry, recommended for guided tours
- • Official website
- • 48 hours for guided tours
- • Available for guided tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Parliament House Canberra
Size: 100 MB
Features: Interactive map, Guided tours, Event calendar, Information about parliamentarians
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Throughout the building
Charging Stations: Visitor center, cafes, and rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Canberra Airport (CBR)
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 15-20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2-3 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: A symbol of Australian democracy and history
Historical Significance: Opened in 1988, replacing the provisional Parliament House in Melbourne and the Old Parliament House in Canberra
Insider Tips
- Free guided tours are highly recommended for a deeper understanding
- The building's design includes many symbolic elements
- Check the schedule for public sittings of Parliament
Local Recommendations
- • Visit the nearby National Gallery of Australia
- • Try local Canberra cafes
- • Take a stroll around Lake Burley Griffin
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Capture the symmetrical design and flags
Result: Iconic shot of Parliament House
Members' Garden
Best Time: Afternoon
Tips: Use the garden as a foreground for the building
Result: Beautiful garden views with the building in the background
The Forecourt
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Capture the building from a low angle
Result: Stunning sunset views with the Parliament House silhouette
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Old Parliament House
Distance: 500m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Historical Site
National Gallery of Australia
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Museum
Lake Burley Griffin
Distance: 500m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Landscape
National Museum of Australia
Distance: 3km
Walking: 40 min
Type: Museum
Questacon
Distance: 2.5km
Walking: 30 min
Type: Science Museum
Reviews
Based on 15,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Take a guided tour for the best experience"
- "Visit the Members' Garden for a peaceful moment"
- "Check out the artwork inside the building"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
10
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
15,000
Adult Entry
Free