Easy democracy in a complex world
Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House
In the southernmost part of The National Triangle, in Parkes, visitors can admire the rich cultural legacy of the first seat of parliament in Canberra . The area features beautiful green accessible spaces like the National Rose Gardens such as the Macarthur Rose Garden. You can find The Federation Centenary Fountains in the middle of The Gardens, close to several significant national institutions. If you come from the northern part of Parkes, you will have to cross the Gardens and the Aboriginal Tent Embassy that has become established on the lawns of Parliament House. We highly recommend not missing the King George V Memorial on your way to Old Parliament House.
Old Parliament House is partially accessible from ground level. For elevator access, use the doors located on either side of the main staircase marked with accessible entry signs. All levels are accessible and connected by a lift. Unfortunately, not all room doors are wide enough, so please be mindful that certain areas of the House of Representatives and Senate chambers might not be accessible depending on the size of your device.
The Museum of Australian Democracy (MoAD) is situated within the premises of Old Parliament House. You can discover collections and stories about democracy in Australia. There is a coffee shop on the lower floor after reception.
The lift dimensions for MOAD: Accessible street entry lift: door width is 98cm; interior dimensions are 143cm long x 110cm wide. Lower to Main Floor lift: door width is 160cm; interior dimensions are 141cm long x 149cm wide. Cafe lift: door width is 110cm; interior dimensions are 140cm long x 115cm wide.
If you prefer to visit the National archives of Australia first, accessible parking is directly connected to the premises through a lift that gives access to all levels. The National archives of Australia have safeguarded Australia's heritage. If you want to see how the Australian Government has performed over the years, visit by car or take a stroll through the McArthur Rose Garden. There is a ramp at the entrance and at the back of the building.
What Can Be Found Here?
- The National Rose Gardens is fully accessible for wheelchairs and people with other mobility devices.
- Roads are connected with main landmarks and historic venues. Although some of them may have gravel paths, they are generally easy to navigate.
- Inside the MoAD you will find wide hallways in most areas and accessible exhibition rooms.
- Drop-off and pick-up facilities are available in front of Old Parliament House.
- Complimentary wheelchairs and scooters are provided on site for visitors at Old Parliament House.
- There is a wheelchair available at the National Archives of Australia at no cost.
Accessible toilets
- The Museum of Australian Democracy has one accessible toilet on the lower floor and two on the main floor. All toilets provide right handrails and are accessed through two doors, both of which are automatic.
- Nearby, accessible toilets are located in front of the tennis court on the side of Old Parliament House for visitors.
- Toilets are convenient for wheelchairs and impaired devices on the ground floor Of the National Archives of Australia.
Accessible parking
- There is free access to the car park area drop-ff and pick-up in front of Old Parliament House.
- Free unlimited accessible parking, whereas everyone else must pay via the EasyPark app or credit card.
- More parking available at Parliament Square off King Edward Terrace
