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Museum of Australian Democracy Review

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Museum of Australian Democracy

Address: King George Terr., Parkes, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory | Map It
Phone: 02/6270-8222
www.oph.gov.au

Category: Architectural Sites
Location: Central Canberra

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Fodor's Review:

Built in 1927, this long white building was meant to serve only as a temporary seat of government, but it was more than 60 years before its much larger successor was finally completed on the hill behind it. Now that the politicians have moved out, the renovated building is open for public inspection. Guided tours, departing from Kings Hall on the half hour, take you through the legislative chambers, party rooms, and suites that once belonged to the prime minister and the president of the Senate. Old Parliament House also contains the expanding National Portrait Gallery, which displays likenesses of important Australians past and present. While you're in the area, take a stroll through the delightful Rose Gardens on both sides of the Old Parliament House building. Across the road from the entrance visit the controversial Aboriginal Tent Embassy, established in 1972 to proclaim the Aboriginals as Australia's "first people" and to promote recognition of their fight for land rights.

Cost: A$2
Open: Daily 9-5

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