Department of Education Building, Government administrative building in Sydney, Australia

The Department of Education Building fills a full block between Bridge, Loftus, Bent and Young Streets and Farrer Place. Colonial Architect George McRae designed its Edwardian Baroque sandstone facades, which were built in two matching stages: the northern half completed in 1912 and the southern half by John Reid and Son in 1938. The marble inscription over the Farrer Place entrance still reads "Department of Agriculture".

Colonial Architect George McRae designed this Edwardian Baroque structure, with construction completed in two stages: the northern section in 1912 and the southern section in 1938. The two-stage development reflected the expanding needs of the state's education administration over those decades.

The building's name changed from Department of Public Instruction to Department of Education in 1915. The Royal Australian Historical Society, founded in 1901, was eventually given rooms in the building. The marble over the Farrer Place entrance still reads "Department of Agriculture", a reminder of the southern half's original occupant.

The building can be viewed from the surrounding streets, where its four sandstone facades are best appreciated. Access to interior spaces and the art gallery may be restricted, so check conditions before planning a visit.

The building now functions as part of a luxury hotel development that preserves the original sandstone facades while introducing contemporary hospitality use. This transformation demonstrates how heritage conservation coexists with modern commercial purposes.