Things to do in South Canberra

Australia’s Parliament House is the standout structure in the capital. It’s in the very centre of the city and has an impressive 62 acres (25 hectares)) of floor space. It’s the work of New York-based architectural firm Mitchell and Giurgola, who beat 329 entrants from 28 countries in a competition run by the Australian Government. Construction started in 1981, and it was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1988.

The National Gallery of Australia is the largest art museum in the country. It’s home to over 160,000 works, including the most extensive collection of Aboriginal art in the world. It also holds traditional and modern works from all around Asia, statues and paintings by European and American masters, and Australian works from the colonial era to the present day.

Questacon is the Australian National Science and Technology Centre. It features a range of exhibits about everything from water, to electricity and light. Most exhibits are targeted at children, but there’s plenty to see and do for adults as well.

Old Parliament House was constructed in the 1920s as a provisional base for the national parliament. It was designed in a stripped classical style with little ornamentation, but is decorated with numerous artworks and Australian timber panelling. Today it’s home to the Museum of Australian Democracy, hosting exhibits about the evolution and workings of the Australian political system.

The National Library of Australia is the most comprehensive reference library in the country. It was formed as the National Parliamentary Library in 1901 and became the National Library in 1960. Its collection includes Asian literary works and documents, rare books and manuscripts, photographs, maps, paintings, music and video. Browse the archives, choose something interesting and settle down in a reading room. There are over 10 million items in the library catalogue, so you’re sure to find something to your taste. The periodicals section has copies of the first newspaper printed in Australia as well as an enormous range of overseas publications. Explore the manuscripts archive to see gems like Captain Cook’s journal and original documents written by the country’s first prime minister.

Experience a friendly village atmosphere at Manuka Shopping Centre, which provides interesting outlets for everyday needs, entertainment and luxuries all in one location. Visit for essential services and stay for the restaurants, fashion and gift shops, all in close proximity to Canberra’s major attractions.

The Royal Australian Mint was opened in 1965 by Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh ahead of the introduction of the new Australian dollar in 1966. The mint makes every single coin in circulation as well as medallions and commemorative tokens. It does not produce notes; these are produced at Note Printing Australia.