Government House and Grounds

Government House is a heritage building and official residence in Perth featuring Jacobean Revival architecture across two floors with decorative gables and stone walls. The ground level displays gothic-style arcading along St Georges Terrace, creating a distinctive entrance facade.

Construction of this governmental residence was completed in 1864 under architect Edmund Henderson's direction using convict labor. Since its completion, it has served as the primary seat of government administration for Western Australia.

The building functions as the official residence of Western Australia's Governor and hosts state ceremonies and diplomatic events throughout the year. Visitors can observe how the formal grounds and interior design reflect its role in the state's public life.

The gardens are open to visitors Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 2 PM with wheelchair access available at the St Georges Terrace entrance. The grounds are best explored on foot to appreciate the layout and gardens at a comfortable pace.

The grounds encompass roughly 3 hectares of English-style gardens with commemorative trees planted to mark important moments in the state's past. A separate Federation Queen Anne style building called The Lodge, constructed in the early 1900s, stands alongside the main residence.