CANBERRA, Australia - Parliament House is the meeting place of the Parliament of Australia. It is located in Canberra, the capital of Australia. It was opened on 9 May 1988 by Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of Australia.[1] Its construction cost was over $ billion. At the time of its construction it was the most expensive building in the Southern Hemisphere. Prior to 1988, the Parliament of Australia met in the Provisional Parliament House, which is now known as "Old Parliament House".


The Australian Parliament House, located in Canberra, the nation's capital, is the meeting place for Australia's bicameral federal legislature, which consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives. This iconic modern architectural landmark was officially opened in 1988, replacing the provisional Parliament House that had been used since 1927. The building, situated on Capital Hill, symbolizes the importance of the democratic process and the power of the people in shaping the country's destiny. Designed by the architectural firm Mitchell/Giurgola & Thorp, the building is characterized by its unique triangular shape, open spaces, and impressive flagpole, which can be seen from various points across Canberra. The Parliament House houses the offices of the Prime Minister, the Opposition Leader, Ministers, Members of Parliament, Senators, and their staff. In Australia's federal government, Parliament plays a crucial role in the legislative process and the representation of citizens. It is composed of two chambers, the Senate and the House of Representatives, together forming a bicameral legislature. The Senate represents the interests of the six states and two territories, while the House of Representatives represents the Australian population based on electorates. Members of Parliament (MPs) and Senators are elected by the citizens, ensuring democratic representation. Parliament is responsible for making, amending, and repealing laws, discussing and debating important national issues, and scrutinizing the actions of the executive branch. The executive branch, including the Prime Minister and the Cabinet, is drawn from the Parliament, ensuring collaboration and accountability between the branches of government.


Size: 5026px × 3338px
Location: Parliament House, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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