As visitors walk up the famous steps and enter the elegant, atmospheric space of King’s Hall, they find themselves in the heart of one of Australia’s most significant heritage treasures. Beyond King’s Hall, visitors have a feast of new exhibitions and programs to choose from.

While the new museum showcases the history of Australian democracy, it also continues to pay respect to the heritage values of this former home of Federal Parliament. Once the busy nucleus of parliamentary business, the building remains a treasure-trove where visitors can wander the corridors of power, or take a tour with an experienced guide.

The history of Australia’s democracy encompasses our laws and institutions, as well as the way we live as a society. The Museum of Australian Democracy acknowledges that democracy has been experienced by different groups in different ways, and this is reflected in the balanced range of narratives and experiences presented. The new museum aims to become a space where groups can share ideas and experiences in a heritage building that was once the hub of Australian democracy.

The timing for a museum of democracy seems perfect. In the eyes of many nations, Australia has created a world model. But our democracy is also a fragile and contested thing—forever changing and subject to challenge. The mission of the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House is to encourage visitors to reflect on this history and the part they might play in its future.

Visit our Exhibitions page for more information about the new Democracy exhibitions. For information about daily tours and activities, visit the Tours and Activities page.

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Visitors exploring the Australian Democracy: more than 2000 years in the making exhibition.