In short
- Entry to the museum is completely free for all ages.
- PlayUP provides interactive crafts and games for toddlers and primary students.
- Food and drinks are strictly prohibited inside the heritage spaces.
In this article
- What interactive zones are at the Museum of Australian Democracy?
- What rules apply when visiting Old Parliament House with kids?
- Where can families take a break during the tour?
- How much time do families need at Old Parliament House?
- What should parents pack for a family visit?
- Do families need to pay for admission?
Old Parliament House blends formal heritage rooms with family-focused exhibition spaces. While the historic chambers require careful behavior, the dedicated play areas allow children to engage with the building's history through hands-on activities.
What interactive zones are at the Museum of Australian Democracy?
The Hands on Democracy (PlayUP) space is designed specifically for children.
This space teaches children about democracy through interactive activities, crafts, and games. It is highly recommended for toddlers and primary school-aged children. Spending 30 to 45 minutes here helps break up the heritage tour.
What rules apply when visiting Old Parliament House with kids?
Families must follow strict heritage preservation rules, including no food or drink inside.
- Food and drinks are strictly prohibited inside exhibition spaces and heritage rooms.
- Reusable water bottles must remain inside your closed bag.
- Visitors cannot touch heritage furniture or fabrics unless signs explicitly mark them as interactive.
Where can families take a break during the tour?
You can rest in the internal courtyards or the adjacent National Rose Gardens.
The internal courtyards are open-air spaces located within the building footprint. They provide natural light and a quiet spot to sit for about 10 minutes. Outside, the National Rose Gardens offer paved pathways where kids can walk freely.
How much time do families need at Old Parliament House?
Plan for 60 to 90 minutes to see the main areas and visit PlayUP.
You need 20 to 30 minutes to view the House of Representatives and Senate chambers. The Prime Minister's Suite takes 15 to 20 minutes. Add 30 to 45 minutes for the hands-on children's activities.
What should parents pack for a family visit?
Bring a small daypack, comfortable walking shoes, and a reusable water bottle.
Oversized bags may not be permitted in the narrow heritage spaces. A light sweater is useful because climate control can make the heritage rooms cool. Bring headphones if you want to use your own device for digital audio guides.
Do families need to pay for admission?
No, general admission to the Museum of Australian Democracy is completely free.
Walk-ins are welcome daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The museum only closes on Christmas Day. Large school groups require prior booking, but individual families do not.
Questions travellers ask
Is the Museum of Australian Democracy suitable for kids?
Yes. The museum features the Hands on Democracy (PlayUP) space. This area offers interactive crafts and games specifically designed for toddlers and primary school-aged children.
Is entry to the Museum of Australian Democracy free?
General admission is completely free for all visitors. The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closing only on Christmas Day.
How much time do you need at Old Parliament House?
Families should expect to spend 60 to 90 minutes. This allows time to walk through the heritage chambers and spend 30 to 45 minutes in the interactive PlayUP area.
