More reasons to visit the people's parliament

18 June 2021

Department of Parliamentary Services

A dynamic calendar of events and activities will attract visitors to the NSW Parliament under a plan to drive growth and engagement over three years.
Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Jonathan O’Dea said the diverse program is part of a new engagement strategy that will open up the Parliament to the people.

“There is something for everyone at NSW Parliament House, whether you’re interested in heritage and history, seeing Parliament in action, viewing the artworks
on display or taking High Tea in our fine dining restaurant,” said Mr O’Dea.

“We want to ensure that everyone in NSW, as well as tourists from interstate and, eventually, overseas, can access the events and experiences on offer.”
Public tours, open days, panel discussions, Aboriginal art exhibitions and events for Vivid 2021 are some of the drawcards for families, students, tourists and history buffs alike. A series of talks, Parliament Unpacked and House Talks, will be accessible via live broadcast and online, as well as in person.

The 2021 calendar also includes a strong Aboriginal focus, including a ‘Koori Kitchen Takeover’ until 9 July that will see native ingredients reflected in the Parliament’s public menus, and the exhibition This is where they travelled, the stories of 19th Century Aboriginal people who lived in and around Sydney's coast, until end July.

In August, the NSW Parliament will host a series of events as part of Vivid Sydney 2021, including a performance by singer-songwriter Ngaiire; a Q&A with investigative journalist Kate McClymont, a screening of the 2020 Australian documentary Brazen Hussies and one-man shows by political cartoonist First Dog on the Moon.

A Family Fun Day in October will feature activities including children’s craft, live entertainment, and role-play and games including ‘democracy hop-scotch’.
The 115-year-old Jubilee Room is also open to the public each day. 

President of the NSW Legislative Council Matthew Mason-Cox said the NSW Parliament is Australia’s oldest Parliament.

“A treasure trove of history, politics, art and architecture awaits visitors to NSW Parliament House and best of all, it is free,” said Mr Mason-Cox. 

“In 2024, we’ll be celebrating 200 years of the NSW Parliament. We invite people to step inside these historic doors and discover for themselves everything that makes our democracy so wonderful.”