Precious objects worth exploring

Have you ever been in the presence of a highly revered museum object, such as Ned Kelly’s iron suit of armour or champion racehorse Phar Lap and felt the urge to reach out and touch it? How would it feel to wear the very same 41 kg suit of armoured steel that our nation’s most famous bush ranger wore during his last stand at Glenrowan? What would it feel like to reach out and caress the majestic forelock of that legendary chestnut gelding Phar Lap?

Objects such as these carry with them a special kind of meaning, they are significant to the history of our nation – they generate admiration and an aspiration to study them. Our national heritage buildings stimulate a similar desire. These monuments of our built environment stand gracefully as relics of our distant past, places that contain within their walls the chapters of our national story. These places allow us to explore and discover their secrets and stories directly.

The Museum of Australian Democracy (MoAD) at Old Parliament House is one such place. Wandering through the lobbies and chambers is a great way to learn about the historical significance of the building, though often, such an experience provokes many questions. Have you ever noticed, or wondered why there is a small peep hole mounted in a book case in the Prime Minister’s office?

An introductory 45 minute tour (free after entry) is a great way to become acquainted with the building and our democratic heritage. Our friendly staff and volunteers can help you to discover some fascinating stories and anecdotes about the building. At MoAD we say that the Old Parliament House building is the most significant object held in our collection, and taking a guided tour is a great way experience and learn about it firsthand.

Discover how our democratic ideas and processes are embodied within the architecture of the building. Learn about the people who worked here and the debates that influenced the future of our nation – indeed some of the most significant decisions that shaped our democracy were made within these walls.

The museum offers six guided tours daily at 9:45, 10:45 and 11:45 each morning and 1:45, 2:45 and 3:45 each afternoon. If you would like to bring a group for a guided tour, we recommend that you book ahead.

Contact our booking staff on (02) 6270 8282 to plan your next visit.