SITE PARTNER:  

Parliament House

Brisbane

Queensland’s seat of government since 1869, the wing of Parliament House facing George St was designed by Colonial architect Charles Tiffin and constructed between 1865-67 in sandstone from Joshua Jeays quarry at Woogaroo. After Queensland was granted separation from NSW and won the right from Queen Victoria to govern on its own in 1859 the legislative chambers had been operating from the old Prison Barracks on Queen St and the need for a parliament headquarters was pressing so a competition was held for a design, which Charles Tiffin won on cost.

In the 1880s the wing facing Alice St was constructed under the supervision of then Colonial Architect George Connolly and although being faithful to the Louvre-inspired French Renaissance style of the original building, this one was much more local in its relief carvings, with staghorns, gumnuts and eucalypt leaves thought to be the work of designer Thomas Pye.

In the ensuing century and a half every important political decision has been thrashed out and made within its walls. And visitors are welcome to inspect their government’s headquarters on weekdays when Parliament is not in session.

Another highlight of a tour is the O'Donovan Library, still with its original shelving, ladders and furniture and home to Brisbane's oldest collection books and publications, including the very first copy of the Moreton Bay Courier (later The Courier Mail).

Opening hours Mon-Fri 9am-4.15pm with free half hour tours departing from the George St entrance, the last one being at 4.15pm. Once a month on Fridays visitors can partake in a high tea in the dining room, prepared by the parliamentary chefs.

Parliament House  

69 Alice St

Brisbane

Map

69 Alice St Brisbane

Top Things To Do In Brisbane This Week

Don't miss Shake & Stir's adaptation of James and the Giant Peach
Embark on an exciting journey through the past & present
The Smile Station is an interactive space for all ages to enjoy
Things are heating up at Terraces Restaurant in April
A cult classic returns to La Boite Theatre
Experience an unforgettable evening with Ella Hooper
The Queensland Choir accompanied by a live orchestra
Queensland Symphony Orchestra bring Olivia's iconic hits to life
A modern fairy tale about kindness, bravery, friendship & burgers!
EDITOR'S PICK

Brisbane's Biggest Easter Weekend

Pop on your bunny ears and head to Victoria Park for a FREE four-day Easter celebration
Brisbane's Biggest Easter Weekend
MUST DO

Easter School Holidays 2024

From Easter-themed mini golf and fun activities, to must-see shows and a dedicated kids festival, here are 20+ egg-citing things to do
Easter School Holiday Guide 2024
THIS WEEKEND

Top Things to Do Mar 29-Apr 1

From free outdoor Easter movies in the park, cutting edge theatre and Easter-themed mini golf to a Renaissance art immersive exhibition
This Weekend Mar 29-Apr 1
FAMILY HOLIDAY

Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

Have you booked in for the school holidays yet? This family holiday resort on the Gold Coast is a fun-filled adventure park where even furry family members are welcome
BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park
COMING UP

What's on in April in & around Brisbane

From a mega sunflower festival & five-week-long Brisbane Comedy Festival to an Olivia Newton-John tribute concert and canine comedians, some top things to do in April in and around Brisbane
What's On in April 2024 around Brisbane
FREE

Park Play

Kids can enjoy a world of wonder and excitement at this fantastic, free holiday program nestled in the heart of Victoria Park.
Park Play
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT

Easter Movie Night

Enjoy an egg-cellent night out with family & friends at Victoria Park’s Easter Movie Night with 2 free movie screenings
Easter Movie Night
KIDS

Playtopia

Roma Street Parkland's newest kids event - where curiority meets fun, offering free activities for children these school holidays
Playtopia
La Boite's awe-inspiring 2024 season kicks off
CONTENT RESUMES ON SCROLL
ADVERTISEMENT