Overview
The Old Parliament House Act refers to the legislation that established and governed the use of Old Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, until it was replaced by the current Parliament House in 1988. Old Parliament House, located on Capital Hill in Canberra, was the seat of the Australian Parliament from 1927 until the completion of the new Parliament House in 1988.
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Key Points about Old Parliament House and the Act:
- Establishment and Purpose:
Old Parliament House was originally constructed to house the Australian Parliament. It was designed by the architectural firm John Smith Murdoch and completed in 1927. The building served as the central legislative hub for the Australian government until 1988 when the new Parliament House was opened on the hill directly behind the old building. - The Old Parliament House Act 1927:
The Old Parliament House Act 1927 was an important piece of legislation that was enacted to provide the legal basis for the operation of the building as the home of the Australian Parliament. The Act established the functions of the building as a parliamentary venue and defined the roles of parliamentarians, staff, and officials involved in the legislative process. - Post-Parliament Use and Preservation:
After the relocation of Parliament to the new Parliament House in 1988, Old Parliament House continued to be used for various government purposes and as a space for exhibitions. In the 1990s, efforts to preserve and maintain the building led to the creation of the Old Parliament House Act 1988, which changed its function and heritage status. - Old Parliament House as a Museum and Visitor Attraction:
Following its closure as the working seat of government, the building was re-purposed as the Museum of Australian Democracy (MoAD). The Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House now serves to educate the public about the history of Australia’s democracy, its political institutions, and the legislative processes that have shaped the nation. - Heritage Protection:
The Old Parliament House was placed on the Australian National Heritage List in 2006 due to its significant role in the history of Australia’s democracy and its architectural importance. It remains an iconic heritage building.
Legacy of the Old Parliament House Act:
The Old Parliament House Act and subsequent legislation helped secure the future of the building as a museum and public educational facility, preserving its role in the history of Australian democracy. It remains a key historical landmark, offering exhibitions, events, and tours to educate the public on Australia’s political heritage.
In summary, the Old Parliament House Act was important for establishing the building’s role in the country’s legislative history and later preserving it as a national heritage site for future generations. The site now provides insights into the development of Australia’s parliamentary system, key political events, and the evolution of Australian democracy.
