A range of programs and events are scheduled throughout the year for the public to engage with the workings of the parliament. These events are designed for families and adults, and can offer the opportunity to view the chambers in session, meet with Members, and on non-sitting days​ to sit in the chambers.

Public Tours

Step back in time into one of Sydney's oldest buildings.

Explore the Parliament with a free guided tour. Visit both chambers where laws are made and some of Sydney's oldest rooms in Australia's first Parliament.

Over one hour, our friendly guides will take you through the Legislative Chambers and the historic Parkes, Wentworth and Jubilee rooms. You will experience first-hand the beautiful colonial architecture while learning more about the role, history and work of the Parliament.

The tour is conducted in English and is suitable for visitors of all ages.

Visits to the Legislative Chambers and to the historic rooms is subject to availability of those spaces at the time of tour.

Tours take place every day during the school holidays except the last Friday of the October school holidays when the Parliament celebrates its annual Family Fun Day by staging fun and educational activities for the public from 10am-3pm

Public Talks

Parliament Unpacked: A series of programs exploring how the Parliament works by providing visitors with an over view of the legislature, an opportunity to view the Chambers in session and then a chance to hear about the work of Members and Parliamentary Officers.

House Talks: A series of theme based talks with a focus on historical events, important anniversaries and engaging topics where we invite expert speakers to inform and entertain us.

To stay up to date on our Public Talks, please subscribe to our mailing list.

Family Fun Day

On a weekday in the October school holidays, the Parliament holds its annual open day, Family Fun Day with children’s craft, mystery object guessing competition, children’s trail, interactive theatrical event, the opportunity to visit the Chambers and more.

To stay up to date on Family Fun Day and other programs for children, please subscribe to our mailing list.

Sydney Open

As a significant heritage building, the Parliament joins many other cultural and historic sites in Sydney, in opening its doors to the public on a weekend in early November to participate in Sydney Open.

A variety of other public tours and programs take place during the year to commemorate anniversaries and to participate in well-established events such as History Week and Law Week.

Stay informed about upcoming programs and events by subscribing to our mailing list.