Senator John Faulkner
05/2009
18 February 2009
Special Minister of State, Senator John Faulkner, today announced that Old Parliament House is to become the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House on 9 May 2009.
The Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House will be the only museum in Australia dedicated to telling the story of Australian democracy. Throughout the House visitors will be able to celebrate and consider the history and distinctive character of Australian democracy while continuing to enjoy the history and heritage of the building.
This major redevelopment will include new exhibitions in the former Parliamentary Library, interactive technology and substantial enhancements to the visitor experience throughout the House. The utmost care will continue to be taken to preserve the unique historical and architectural significance of Old Parliament House.
Senator Faulkner said “Over the years there have been discussions about how best to use and present one of our country’s most historic and best-loved heritage-listed buildings, with people from around the country sharing ideas. After three years of intense preparation, plans for the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House are becoming a reality.
“The Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House will encourage visitors to understand and participate in our democracy, by showing that democracy is about ordinary people using their voice to do extraordinary things. Visitors will discover that democracy isn’t words on a page, or numbers on a ballot paper, but a day-to-day lived experience.”
Throughout the final stages of the development visitors can continue to enjoy the rich history of Australia’s political past at Old Parliament House through tours, events and exhibitions.
For more information about the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House or to arrange an interview with Jenny Anderson, Director, Old Parliament House please contact Kate Jenkins on (02) 6270 8118
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| Media Adviser - Colin Campbell - 0407 787 181 | www.cabinetsecretary.gov.au www.smos.gov.au |