Parliament House

Parliament House, located in Capital Hill in Australia's capital city of Canberra, is the seat of Australia's federal government. It was opened on 9 May 1988 by Elizabeth II, Queen of Australia at the time. The building is made of glass, structural steel and concrete and features 36 steeples and a 315-metre flag mast. The main building contains the chambers of the Senate and House of Representatives, ministerial and caucus rooms, and offices for parliamentarians and their staff. The light and airy atrium, known as the Great Hall, is the centrepiece of the building and houses several sculptures, paintings and historical pieces that represent the nation’s history and culture. The front of the building is flanked by Captain James Cook Memorials and the nearby King George Terrace provides 360-degree views of Parliament House and the nearby lake. The grounds also encompass a Secret Garden, a Visitor Information Centre, and the Captain James Cook Memorial Fountain. Visitors come to Parliament House to learn more about parliament, to explore the building and grounds, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the proceedings in the Senate or House of Representatives.