House debates Statement by the Speaker

Australian Parliament House

Wednesday, 22 August 2018 House of Representatives

Tony Smith

Tony Smith Speaker

2:00 pm

I have a very short statement for the information of honourable members, who would recall that on 9 May this year—budget day—we marked the 30th anniversary of the opening of Parliament House by Her Majesty the Queen. Of course, provisional Parliament House, or Old Parliament House, was the home to our parliament for some 61 years. The last sitting there was on 3 June 1988. I just thought that members would be interested that today marks the 30th anniversary of the first sitting in this House, the permanent home of our national parliament.

There are a number of activities being held throughout the year—

Warren Snowdon

Warren Snowdon Lingiari, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Assistant Minister for External Territories

Let's make it a good one!

Tony Smith

Tony Smith Speaker

I warn the member for Lingiari! It would be a bad thing to be thrown out on, whether you were here or not! There are a number of activities being held throughout the year to mark the 30th anniversary. In particular, I note the Australian Parliament House Open Day, which is on Saturday, 6 October. I can't think of a better way for the public to celebrate the 30th anniversary than an event that offers people the opportunity to come in and explore the building.

For the information of honourable members, the spring program, including the 30th anniversary events, is available on the Australian Parliament House website. I thank the House.