Australia celebrated the 125th anniversary of our federal Parliament on 9 May 2026.
The date marks the first sitting, held in 1901 at Melbourne's Royal Exhibition Building.
This was prior to the establishment of Canberra. Melbourne was serving as Australia's temporary national capital. The Royal Exhibition Building's great hall was the only space big enough to host the occasion.
The building sits among sweeping gardens on the edge of Melbourne's CBD. For more than a century, its soaring dome has been a distinctive feature of the city skyline.
The Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens were World Heritage listed in 2004. The building was National Heritage listed in the same year.
The iconic landmark was our first building inscribed on the World Heritage List. The listing recognises the building's role in the international exhibition movement. It was built for the International Exhibition of 1880.
The international exhibition movement showcased developments in technology, industry, art and science. Our participation was a reflection on our emerging culture. It helped forge our national identity, paving the way for Federation in 1901.
The building's National Heritage listing highlights its role in the movement and in our first Parliament. It stands today as a powerful reminder of our democratic beginnings.
Museums Victoria hosted celebrations at the Royal Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum Plaza. Held on 9-10 May, the open weekend was a chance to reflect on the building's place in our diverse culture. It was an opportunity to explore the building and its role in our diverse culture.
World Heritage listing recognises places that are important to people everywhere. It helps protect them for future generations.
