Visit Government House on Australia Day

A front view of Government House at sunrise

 

Government House will be open to the public

 

Victoria’s Government House - one of the State’s major cultural and historic assets - will be open to the public as part of Australia Day celebrations on Thursday, 26 January 2017.

The Honourable Linda Dessau, AM, Governor of Victoria, and Mr Anthony Howard QC, are inviting community members to visit the house and its extensive gardens from 9.30 am to 3.30 pm. (Note: The self-guided tour of the State Apartments will be available from 10.00 am to 3.00 pm)

Built in 1876, the scale, design and craftsmanship of Government House reflects the confidence and wealth of the gold rushes, and is regarded as one of the finest examples of 19th century residential architecture in the nation.

The mews, including historic stables, and the surrounding 11 hectares of gardens are also of national cultural significance.

Other attractions as part of the Government House Open Day include:

  • The State Landau (State Coach), on loan from Melbourne Museum, will return to Government House for the day. The coach was used by the Governor-General and the Duke and Duchess of York (later King George V and Queen Mary) at the opening of the first Australian Parliament, in Melbourne, in 1901, and subsequently by the Governors-General and Governors, and other Royal visitors.
  • Retired champion racehorses from Living Legends will be in the historic 19th century Hopetoun Stables
  • Live music on the West Lawn and a variety of children’s activities

 

Situated between the Kings Domain and Royal Botanic Gardens, Government House is 1.5 kilometres and a 20-minute walk from Flinders Street Station.

Visitors are invited to bring a picnic or refreshments can be purchased from food vendors including tea and scones from the Country Women’s Association.

Entry is free. There will be no vehicle access to Government House, so visitors are encouraged to use public transport.

Please note: Visitors will be subject to security screening, including bag searches, prior to entry.