Old Parliament House Gardens, Canberra

The Old Parliament House Gardens offer a serene escape adorned with vibrant rose-filled landscapes. The gardens are divided into two distinct areas: the House of Representatives Garden and the Senate Garden, each located on either side of Old Parliament House. These gardens were originally established during the Great Depression, and when the Parliament moved to its new location on Capital Hill in 1988, the gardens were opened to the public.

The transformation of these gardens began in earnest during the tenure of Robert Broinowski, Secretary of the Joint House Department, who, between 1931 and 1938, developed the gardens into an oasis of beauty and functionality. Initially, the landscape was sparse, but under Broinowski’s guidance and with support from the National Rose Society of New South Wales, the gardens were meticulously planned and planted. The addition of hedges to shield against the wind, tennis courts, a cricket pitch, and bowling green, along with four rose gardens, made the space both practical and aesthetically pleasing for members and staff.

However, the gardens fell into neglect following the opening of the new Parliament House, with their floral displays reduced and the tennis courts left locked. The revitalization of the Old Parliament House Gardens began in 2000, focusing on restoring the gardens to their former glory. This included replanting hedges, reconstructing the four rose gardens, and adding paths and public facilities. The restoration efforts aimed to preserve the original design and enhance the gardens' historic and cultural significance.

Today, the Old Parliament House Gardens are a popular venue for both public and corporate functions. The introduction of new features such as seating pavilions, pergolas, and rose arbours has further enriched the gardens, making them a delightful destination for visitors. The careful restoration has ensured that these gardens remain a lush, vibrant tribute to Australia’s parliamentary heritage.