Parliament House
6 Macquarie St., Sydney, New South Wales, 2000
Sydney’s Parliament House is a complex of buildings that has housed the Parliament of New South Wales since 1829. Listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register, the site consists of the north wing of the Rum Hospital building (which was built in 1816 as part of the country’s first hospital) flanked by two Neo-gothic buildings.
The Basics
Visitors can get a peek into the workings of the government with a stop at Parliament House. Admire the architecture of the historic Parkes, Wentworth and Jubilee rooms, and take one of the twice-weekly tours to learn about the Parliament’s history and role in the government. The visitors’ galleries also boast art exhibitions and historical displays.
When Parliament is not in session, both assembly chambers are also open to visitors, but when Parliament is sitting, visitors are only allowed to access the visitors’ galleries. Sydney city tours often include a stop at Parliament House along with other local sites.
Things to Know Before You Go
Visitors must go through a security screening to enter Parliament House.
There are free guided tours on Mondays and Fridays in the early afternoon; advance booking is not required.
The Parliament Building is wheelchair accessible and service animals are welcome.
There is an on-site cafe that is open Monday–Friday and a restaurant that serves lunches on days when Parliament is not in session.
How to Get There
Sydney’s Parliament House is located at 6 Macquarie Street, near the corner of Hunter Street and the Royal Botanic Garden. It is a 25-minute walk from Darling Harbour. The nearest train stations are Martin Place, approximately 2 minutes away, and St. James, which is about 5 minutes away.
When to Get There
Parliament House is open to the public Monday–Friday during normal business hours, all year round, with the exception of most public holidays and the two-week Christmas and New Years break. The building is open on Australia Day. To determine which days Parliament is in session, see the Sitting Days Calendar.
Dining at Strangers’ Restaurant
Visitors can enjoy a meal at the Parliament House’s Strangers’ Restaurant on days that Parliament is not sitting. The restaurant serves lunch, prepared with fresh, seasonal produce, and also offers a popular high tea every Friday, which includes tea and coffee along with handmade bites served on special Wedgwood plates adorned with the Parliament crest.
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