Parliament House, opened in 1868, was designed by Charles Tiffin who was inspired by Parisian buildings like the Louvre. When the Queensland Parliament began in 1860, Legislative Assembly and Council Members met in what was once the Prisoners' Barracks. Now the State of Queensland is governed in more appropriate surroundings.

Palms and jacarandas (in bloom in October) in the forecourt complement the stone walls, which are mellowing attractively with age.

Walk inside to confront the lush red and gold leaf decoration and the grand staircase. Along the walls left and right of the stairs are prints of how Brisbane areas used to look.

Watch the Queensland State Parliament in action from the visitors' gallery and/or take a free half an hour tour of Parliament House and its treasure trove of antiques. Tours are conducted throughout the year except public holidays.  On sitting days, tours are conducted at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm, only.  For Parliament sitting times see, Parliamentary Calendar or Tel +61 7 3406 7111.

Saturday and Sunday tours are conducted between 10:00 am - 2:00 pm for a duration of 20 minutes. Special interest group tours are available on Saturday and Sunday for a duration of 45 minutes. Bookings are essential.

For more information on public tours, see Public Tours located in the left navigation pane.

A gift shop sells souvenirs and memorabilia.

How to get to Parliament House

Parliament House is located at the corner of George and Alice Streets and is within easy walking distance of the Brisbane CBD.

You can also catch a bus or ferry to Parliament House. The Loop is a free council bus service which circles the CBD. The Loop stops at several destinations near the parliamentary precinct. A CityCat ferry terminal is located at the rear of the precinct. There are also numerous public car parking stations within the CBD.

More information about Brisbane public transport is available by calling Transinfo on 131230 or visit their website at http://www.transinfo.qld.gov.au/.