Parliament House Tasmania

Architect: John Lee Archer (1835-40)

Architecture of Civic Life

What happens when a building designed for customs becomes the home of Tasmania’s democracy?

Step inside Parliament House for a rare glimpse behind the sandstone walls of one of Hobart’s most important historic buildings. Originally designed by colonial architect John Lee Archer as a Customs House, the building was constructed between 1835 and 1840, largely using convict labour. Its basement was built to store goods awaiting customs duty, while its position close to the waterfront reflected its original role in Hobart’s growing port.

But the building’s story was only just beginning.

In 1841, the Legislative Council moved into the building’s Long Room. Fifteen years later, Tasmania’s first bicameral Parliament met here, with the House of Assembly taking over the Long Room and the Legislative Council moving into its present chamber. Over time, new spaces were added and existing rooms adapted, creating a fascinating mix of Georgian colonial, early Victorian and later Art Deco interiors.

Look closely and you’ll discover the traces of these different chapters, from convict-built sandstone and brickwork to richly finished parliamentary chambers, historic furniture and the corridors and rooms where Tasmania’s parliamentary life has unfolded for generations.

This special Open House tour offers access to spaces not usually encountered on a visit to Parliament, revealing the building not simply as a place of government, but as a place of changing architecture, history and public life.

Come and have a look behind the familiar façade, discover the stories held within its walls and see how a former Customs House became the home of Tasmania’s democracy.

Tour: Sat 7 Nov 10.00am and 12.00pm (bookings required)