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The Bicentenary of the Legislative Council

The Bicentenary of the Legislative Council

Bicentenary of the Legislative Council Celebrating 200 Years of Democracy Logo Animation
​The Bicentenary of the NSW Legislative Council falls in 2024, marking 200 years since the newly established Council sat for the first time in 1824. This was the country's first example of deliberative government, meaning the Bicentenary is more than just an important milestone for the Council - it's a celebration of two centuries of evolving democracy for Australia.

Between now and 2024, we'll be commemorating and reflecting on the first and oldest legislative body in Australia through a range of special events and resources, many delivered in partnership with key
NSW institutions.

While we're just getting started, use the links below to explore everything the Bicentenary has to offer so far, including details of upcoming seminars and exhibitions, useful related resources and more. You'll also be able to sign up to our quarterly Bicentenary e-newsletter soon to keep up to date with news and activities.

Timeline of Democracy

Discover key events in the Council's development
Events and Exhibitions

Join us for fascinating seminars, events and exhibits
Learn
Join In

The President's Statements
Revisit Bicentenary speeches from the House
'The Immortals' Videos
Meet esteemed figures from the Council's history

Discover

E-newsletter
Coming soon - sign up for a regular dose of history
Related Resources
Get lost in further stories, information and links
Sign Up
Read
WATCH: The Bicentenary program of events
An official program of commemorative events for the Bicentenary of the NSW Legislative Council was launched in October 2022. Discover what's in store with this video narrated by the former President of the Legislative Council, Matthew Mason-Cox:
 
WATCH: What's the Bicentenary all about?
Discover a brief history of the Legislative Council – and the key events our Bicentenary will be commemorating – with this handy overview from our friendly Council staff: