Episode: #7 14/10/2006
Presenter: Fiona Bruyn

When parliament house is mentioned politics and politicians come instantly to mind. But if you visit the place you will be surprised that there is more to it than a building filled with politicians

The parliament house building was designed to blend with the environment, surrounded by 23 hectares of gardens that include a diverse range of plants both native and exotic in styles that are formal and semiformal along with turfed areas

The outer areas of the garden are meant to connect with the surrounding area and as trees and shrubs mature the building is becoming less visible from the distance

Informal outdoor rooms have been created using native plants and serve a variety of uses which include walking and exercise tracks. These provide a relaxed and informal atmosphere, a complete contrast to the formal area closer to the building

Many of the natives in these areas are indigenous to the region and others like the NSW Waratah are plants that the Australian states have adopted as their floral emblems.

The terraced formal gardens are open for everyone to enjoy. They have a changing seasonal display and many functions and weddings are held there.

The traditional formal European garden with its trimmed hedges, annuals and ornamental orchard are typical of the style. Many pieces in the garden have been gifts to parliament from other countries

The turf areas outside the buildings are planted with a mix of tall fescue and Kentucky Blue Grass and have been chosen because of the colour, cold tolerance, disease resistance and ability to resist wear and tear.

With millions of visitors walking on it every year it needs to be tough.

The internal courtyards serve vital functions for the people using the buildings. They allow light into the offices and provide a pleasant outdoor space for people to enjoy.

Plants in the courtyard were selected to provide shade, screening and year round interest, all very important aspects when designing small enclosed spaces.

Water features can be found in 14 of the courtyards and serve a variety of functions including the dampening of voices, dividing spaces and reflecting light.

With so many plants on site that need to be maintained and with such a large area that needs to be covered, good management is essential. They have also taken steps to protect the environment with practices that include regular soil and water testing, water management, recycling of materials and practicing integrated pest management.

So there really is another good reason to visit Canberra, the gardens at Parliament house are truly amazing!

Parliament House
Canberra
ACT 2600
Australia

Open from 9.00am to 5.00pm every day except Christmas Day.
Opening times are extended for evening sessions of Parliament.

Further Information

Visitor Services

Telephone (02) 6277 5399
Facsimile (02) 6277 5068
Recorded Information (02) 6277 2727
Email: Visitor.Services@aph.gov.au