Australians are being invited to step back into a defining chapter of national history as Royal Exhibition Building opens its doors for a weekend of public events on 9 and 10 May, marking 125 years since the first sitting of Federal Parliament in 1901.
The anniversary will be observed with formal proceedings on the Saturday, bringing together federal and state representatives alongside First Peoples and community guests. The ceremony reflects on the moment when the newly federated nation gathered under one roof, while also recognising perspectives that extend far beyond that date.
A contemporary commemorative photograph will be created during the proceedings, offering a modern counterpart to the well-known 1901 visual record by Charles Nuttall. The new work is set to join the State Collection, continuing the tradition of documenting national milestones through art.
From midday across both days, the focus shifts to public access. Visitors can take part in building tours, attend civic discussions, and explore a program of performances and family activities. Food stalls with international offerings are expected to add to the atmosphere, positioning the site as both a historical landmark and a gathering space.
A temporary exhibition curated by Museums Victoria will bring together artefacts linked to Federation, including Nuttall’s large-scale painting The Opening, Commonwealth Parliament (1901–02). The work has not been shown publicly since 2001 and presents a detailed portrayal of the original ceremony. Also on display is the State Landau Coach, built in London in the late nineteenth century and used during the 1901 processions.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese framed the anniversary as a chance to reflect on the country’s early democratic direction, noting Australia’s record on voting rights and its reliance on the contributions of its people.
Victorian Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks pointed to the building’s long-standing role in public life, alongside ongoing government funding aimed at preserving the UNESCO-listed site. He described the anniversary weekend as part of a broader effort to keep the venue active and accessible.
From within the institution, Museums Victoria Board President Mary Stuart described the building as a place that reflects both the ambitions and the unfinished aspects of the nation’s history. She emphasised the responsibility to maintain not only the structure itself, but the stories associated with it.
Justice Nelson, who leads First Peoples Experiences at Museums Victoria, offered a different frame of reference. While 1901 is often treated as a beginning, she noted that First Peoples’ governance, culture and connection to Country long predate Federation. Her remarks highlight the broader context in which such anniversaries are being reconsidered.
The event is backed by support from the Scanlon Foundation and McKinnon, with further programme details and performances expected to be announced closer to the date.
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