Melbourne’s Royal Exhibition Building will host a major celebration on 9 and 10 May 2026, marking 125 years since the opening of Australia’s Federal Parliament with a weekend of free events, performances and historical reflection.
Australia’s first Federal Parliament was officially opened at the UNESCO world heritage listed building in the Carlton Gardens on 9 May 1901, with its first sitting held the following day at Parliament House on Spring Street. Originally intended as a short-term arrangement of just a few years, the relocation extended far longer when Old Parliament House was opened in Canberra in 1927. Melbourne served as the temporary capital of Australia during that period of time.
The anniversary begins on Saturday 9 May with formal proceedings commemorating the original 1901 opening, bringing together senior Federal and State Government representatives alongside invited First Peoples and community members. A new commemorative photograph will also be created, offering a modern counterpart to the historic imagery captured at the time, and will be added to the State Collection.
From midday across both days, the focus shifts to a public program designed to open up the site and its history to visitors. Running from 12pm to 5pm, the event includes guided tours of the Royal Exhibition Building, a range of cultural performances, civic talks and family-friendly activities. Food offerings from across different cultures will also be available, adding to the festival atmosphere.
A key drawcard is a special pop-up exhibition from Museums Victoria, featuring significant artefacts connected to the 1901 Federation event. Among the highlights is Charles Nuttall’s large-scale painting The Opening, Commonwealth Parliament (1901–02), a detailed depiction of the historic moment that has not been publicly displayed since 2001. The State Landau Coach, used in ceremonial processions at the time, will also be on display.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s shared history and values.
“125 years ago we chose to face the world together, as Australians. We’ve always done things the Australian way, including being one of the first countries where women had the right to vote in elections and run for Parliament,” Mr Albanese said.
“That reflects our instinct for fairness and our understanding that Australia is stronger when we draw on the talents of all our people.”
“For all the extraordinary abundance of resources with which Australia is blessed, the greatest is our people. That’s something we should celebrate every day,” he said.
Further programming and performance announcements will be made in the coming weeks. For more information, please click here.
