Parliament of Queensland, State legislature in Brisbane, Australia
The Parliament of Queensland is the place where the state legislature operates from within a colonial structure featuring French Renaissance design elements. The sandstone facade displays copper-domed towers and houses chambers, public viewing areas, and a library.
The building began operations after Queensland separated from New South Wales in 1860, initially holding sessions in converted military barracks. A major change occurred in 1922 when the upper house was abolished, making it the only single-chamber parliament among Australia's states.
The building acknowledges Indigenous connections to the land through formal statements and displays artworks created by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists throughout its rooms. These works form part of the everyday environment and remind visitors of the region's heritage.
Visitors can join guided tours on days when the parliament is not in session to explore the chambers, public galleries, and library. It is helpful to check ahead whether visits are possible, as access may be limited when sessions are taking place.
Queensland is the only state in Australia with a single-chamber parliament after abolishing its second chamber in 1922. This system sets it apart from all other Australian states and territories.
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