Parliament of New South Wales

The Parliament of New South Wales occupies a Georgian building with two neo-gothic wings housing the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council chambers. The structure features classical elements combined with Gothic details that give each major chamber its distinctive character.

The building was originally constructed in 1816 as part of the Rum Hospital and later transformed when the Legislative Council began operations in 1824. This shift marked the change from a medical facility to the seat of state government.

The building displays Australian art collections and honors both British parliamentary customs and Aboriginal heritage through its ceremonial practices. Visitors can observe these cultural traditions reflected in the decorated rooms and official proceedings.

Visitors can join guided tours of the chambers Monday through Friday and watch proceedings from the public galleries. Educational materials about the parliamentary system are available to help understand how the institution operates.

The building retains its original hospital colonnade from 1816, making it the oldest public structure still standing in Sydney's central district. This architectural feature connects its medical past with its current political role.