Heritage and history

Explore the rich heritage of the Parliament of New South Wales, Australia's oldest Parliament. Find key moments in New South Wales' democratic journey, a behind-the-scenes look at our restoration project, and highlights from our permanent collection.

Heritage, collections and archives

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Living Heritage

The Legislature has occupied the building since 1829 and over time greatly expanded it...

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Permanent collection

The Parliament of NSW is proud to host a permanent collection of art and sculptures...
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Parlimento

Explore historic items from the Parliament's archival collection...

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The history of the Legislative Council

Learn about the history of the NSW Legislative Council.
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The history of the Legislative Assembly

Learn about the history of the NSW Legislative Assembly and democracy in NSW.
Parliament House from Macquarie Street taken between 1st December 1870 and 31st December 1870.

History of democracy in NSW

Explore the history of democracy in NSW.

Our award-winning restoration

The site of the Parliament of NSW precinct is one of the most historic in Australia. In 2022, the Parliament began a program of critical maintenance and conservation works for the oldest and most significant buildings, including the chambers, atriums, façade, and the Rum Hospital rooms.

Read more about the restoration works.

  • The NSW Department of Parliamentary Services won the Interiors and Objects category for the Parliament of NSW Chambers Restoration Project at the National Trust of Australia (NSW) Heritage Awards in May 2024.
  • The NSW Department of Parliamentary Services won the Interiors and Objects category for the Parliament of NSW Rum Hospital Restoration Project at the National Trust of Australia (NSW) Heritage Awards in May 2025.
  • Architects Tonkin Zulaikha Greer and Purcell won the Heritage Conservation Award for their research-led, methodical, and careful approach to the restoration of the Parliament of NSW (Chambers, Façade, and Rum Hospital) at the NSW Institute of Architects awards in June 2025.
  • Architects Tonkin Zulaikha Greer and Purcell won the 2025 Lachlan Macquarie Award for Heritage, for the restoration of the Parliament of NSW (Chambers, Façade, and Rum Hospital), the highest honour in the Heritage category at the Australian Institute of Architects National Awards in November 2025.

Steep yourself in history

A hand rests on the golden gate at the entrance to the public gallery of the NSWS Legislative Council Chamber.

Parliament tours

Step back in time into one of Sydney's oldest buildings and join a free guided tour of our historic chambers! Learn about the role, history and work of the Parliament.

Find out more

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