Victoria's Parliament House a neglected treasure

"Pollywaffle" column - 25 August 1994

Have you ever seen inside Victoria's Parliament House?

When Victorians visit Canberra, a tour around Parliament House is usually high on the list of things to do, but I am often amazed at how many Victorians have never been inside our very own Parliament House in Spring Street. This is a pity, because it is one of the finest 19th century buildings in Melbourne and, indeed, one of the finest 19th century Parliament Houses in the world.

In recent years our Parliament House has been made far more accessible to both individuals and groups. When the Parliament is not sitting, there are tours conducted every weekday at 10.00am, 11.00am, 12.00noon, 2.00pm, 3.00pm and 3.45pm, hosted by friendly and well informed tour guides. You can even get a "pollie's eye" view of the Parliament from the floor of both chambers.

When the Parliament is sitting, anyone may sit in the public gallery of either House and view the debate. Space is usually limited for the Legislative Assembly question time at 2.00pm and is allocated on a first come, first served basis, but apart from that you should have no trouble getting a seat.

Parliament also has an open week in March each year, where as well as looking over the buildings you can inspect fascinating exhibits prepared by the staff of the Parliamentary Library on the history of Parliament and of politics in Victoria.

Community and school groups can book tours of the Parliament on both sitting and non-sitting days. Morning and afternoon teas can also be arranged at a small charge. Tours can be booked through your local MP, or through the tours office at Parliament House on 651 8568.

An education officer has recently been appointed to the Parliament, who can provide additional assistance and material for school groups visiting Parliament House.

Most Members of Parliament are happy to meet community and school groups from their electorate at Parliament House and tell them a little bit more about how Parliament and the political system operate.

In recent years the magnificent Queens Hall in Parliament House has been opened for functions, receptions and dinners for non-commercial, non-fundraising purposes, provided the event is sponsored and attended by a Member of Parliament. An increasing number of groups are taking advantage of this opportunity, and bookings can be initiated through a local Member of Parliament.

So if you or your club or school class are looking for something different, pay a visit to Victoria's Parliament House!

Robert Clark.