A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE

RESOURCE THE CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION Introduction ...... 3 THE BUILDING The building that shaped a nation...... 4 Design and construction ...... 5 The House of Representatives Chamber...... 6 The Senate Chamber ...... 7 King’s Hall ...... 8 The Cabinet Room...... 9 The Gardens...... 10

THE EVENTS Old Parliament House opens 1927...... 11 The Second World War 1939-45 ...... 12 The Federal Election 1949...... 13 The Royal Visit 1954...... 14 The Dismissal 1975 ...... 15

THE DECISIONS The National Service Act 1964...... 16 The Referendum 1967...... 17 The Racial Discrimination Act 1975 ...... 18 The World Heritage Properties Conservation Act 1983 ...... 19

THE PRIME MINISTERS The Prime Ministers of Old Parliament House...... 20-25

THE WEBSITE moadoph gov. au/learning. @moadlearning @museumofaustraliandemocracy

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.2 THE INTRODUCTION

A national icon, and a place a nation in its own right . Over the people in it . Produced in a of great beauty, magnificent that time, the building was the fact sheet format with each page design and historical signifi- theatre in which the politics of covering one topic, it can be used cance, Old Parliament House is the day were played out and as information for background home to the Museum of Austra- momentous decisions made . research for a unit on Federal lian Democracy (MoAD) . Parliament and as a starting Today, the importance of the point for further study and dis- As a modern day town square, building lies in its historical and cussion on democracy . we celebrate social value to the Australian democratic spirit, champion people . The building is a na- For further information and national leadership and continue tionally significant ‘museum of resources check our website at to explore and promote the work itself’ and of ’s polit- moadoph .gov .au/learning of key thinkers who shaped who ical heritage . It is listed on the we are today . National Heritage Register and as such, is a precious place . MoAD Learning The 61 years that Old Par- liament House served as the MoAD Learning has prepared Republished June 2016 home of the Federal Parliament this resource in response to re- was a time of enormous change quests from teachers, students in Australia . The country grew and parents for information on from an Imperial to the history of the building and

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.3 THE BUILDING THE THAT SHAPED BUILDING THE NATION

Old Parliament House was the home of the Federal Parliament from 1927 to 1988 . During this time, great changes took place in Australian social and political life . This is the building in which democracy matured in Australia . It was here the nation was shaped . The building was designed by John Smith Murdoch; the first Commonwealth government architect . He was asked to design OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE OPENS IN 1927. a ‘provisional’ building intended to NATIONAL LIBRARY OF AUSTRALIA serve as a parliament for 50 years . Around the building grew the new Australian capital city of . served as Parliament House, there Today, the building is listed on the The need for a national capital were many changes in the size and National Heritage Register and is arose when the Australian colonies nature of the Federal Parliament . home to the Museum of Australian united to form the Commonwealth During this time the House of Democracy—a museum that tells of Australia in 1901 . Representatives grew from 76 the story of Australia’s democracy, Parliament House was like a to 148 members and the Senate including the history and heritage town within the city of Canberra . from 36 to 76 members . In 1927, of the building . It had its own library, post office, only the Speaker of the House, barber, carpentry workshop, bars the President of the Senate, the and dining room . By the 1980s, Prime Minister, the Leader of the thousands of people worked in Government in the Senate and the building including politicians, ministers had their own offices. parliamentary staff, Hansard By the 1980s, the building had reporters, journalists, dining room exceeded its capacity with almost and bar staff. 3000 people crowded into a build- OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE IN THE 1950S. NATIONAL LIBRARY OF AUSTRALIA During its life as a working ing originally intended for a few parliament, this building was the hundred . Members and senators setting for many of Australia’s had offices of their own, most of major political events . Debates them tiny and overcrowded . that influenced the future of A new and permanent Par- the nation took place here, key liament House was completed decisions were taken, political in 1988 . In June of that year, careers were made and ended . members sat for the last time In the 61 years that the building after 61 years in the old building .

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.4 THE DESIGN & BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

Construction started in 1923 and workers and building materials TWO YOUNG GIRLS STAND ON COURTYARD STEPS OF came from all parts of Australia . THE BUILDING DURING ITS CONSTRUCTION IN 1926. Timber from nearly every State NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF AUSTRALIA was used inside to reflect the federal nature of the building . Bricks came from nearby Yar- ralumla brickworks, transported to the site by light rail . The cost of the building and the furnishings was more than £600 000—almost three times the original estimate . There were many changes and additions over the years as the number of members, senators, staff and journalists increased. Windows were blocked off and verandahs glassed in . Extensions The Old Parliament House gold decoration on the glass doors . changed the shape of the building, building was designed by Chief The building is filled with natural in particular those to the sides Commonwealth Government light from windows, skylights and and front of the building from the architect John Smith Murdoch . It light wells . Gardens and courtyards 1940s to the 1970s . is the last and best known of his offer places for recreation or quiet government buildings . His designs thought . Covered walkways sur- can be found all over Australia round and link parts of the building . from the GPO to the South The three storey building is Telephone Exchange . He planned around the two legislative DEMOLITION WORK IN PROGRESS AS PART OF designed East and West Blocks or law-making Chambers—the THE EXTENSIONS THAT WERE CARRIED OUT IN in Canberra to complement the House of Representatives and the 1972–73. THIS INCLUDED THE ADDITION OF A building . The foundations of West Senate . The legislative section at NEW PRIME MINISTER’S SUITE. Block were raised so the roofs the front includes party meeting CANBERRA TIMES PHOTO ARCHIVE of all three buildings were at the rooms and offices as well as the same height . Chambers . The recreational areas, Murdoch’s design for the building located at the back of the building, was thought to be very modern for comprise the dining room and bar . its time . Square and circular motifs Press offices occupy most of the were features of the architecture upper floor, while offices, kitch- and furniture throughout the build- ens, plant rooms and storage are ing . These appear on balcony rails, located on the lower floor. floor design, light fittings and the

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.5 THE HOUSE OF THE REPRESENTATIVES BUILDING CHAMBER

and senior members of the Op- ment in 1901 . He served until position sat behind them on the 1952, when he died in office at the front benches . The backbenchers age of 90 . initially had no offices of their own Some major turning points in the building . They worked at the in Australian history have been desk in front of them and in their announced and debated in this party rooms, and kept their papers room . In the early 1950s, the in the lockable drawer under their Chamber saw passionate debates seats . Hansard reporters were when argued for seated at the central table on the the banning of the Communist side . They recorded Party of Australia . The consti- by hand, and later by machine, all tutional amendment to give the parliamentary sessions, except for Commonwealth power to legislate some secret meetings held during for Aboriginal people was debated the Second World War . in 1967 and overwhelmingly Many remarkable characters supported when it was put to have sat in the Chamber. The fiery the people in a referendum . In Labor politician holds 1975, told the the record for 15 suspensions House of Representatives that from the House of Representa- the Governor‑General had THE SPEAKER’S CHAIR CAME FROM BRITAIN. tives for misconduct . dismissed the Whitlam Gov- IN THE CHAMBER ALL NON-LABOR SPEAKERS was the longest serving member . ernment and appointed him WORE FORMAL DRESS OVER A BLACK SUIT Prime Minister from 1915–23, Caretaker Prime Minister . SPEAKERS FROM THE LABOR PARTY Hughes was one of the original NEVER WORE THE REGALIA. members of the Federal Parlia- NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF AUSTRALIA

The House of Representatives THE LAST SITTING OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN MAY 1988. is the place where Australia’s gov- WAS THE LAST PRIME MINISTER TO SERVE IN THIS CHAMBER. ernments are formed by the ma- JOAN CHILD WAS THE SPEAKER AND THE FI RST WOMAN TO HOLD THIS POSITION. jority party or of parties . ROBERT MACFARLANE, DEPT. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Major decisions were made in this Chamber that continues to affect our lives today . It was the scene of debate and argument, regu- lated by rules known as ‘Standing Orders’ . The Speaker, who sat in the carved chair at the head of the centre table, was in charge of the debate . Government members sat on the Speaker’s right and Oppo- sition members to the left . The Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition sat at the central table facing each other, while ministers

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.6 THE THE SENATE BUILDING CHAMBER

have a majority in the Senate . The declare the new Parliament in Senate has almost equal power session . Queen Elizabeth II per- to the House of Representatives, formed this function in 1954, 1974 with the important exception and 1977 . that it cannot introduce or amend Although some senators may money bills . These bills are the be ministers, the Prime Minister means by which the Government must be a member of the House obtains funds (often referred to of Representatives . Only once in as supply) for its administration . the history of the Federal Par- However the Senate can reject or liament has the Prime Minister refuse to pass such bills . In 1975, the come from the Senate . This Senate demonstrated this power happened in 1968 when Senator when it refused to pass the supply was elected leader bills, triggering the constitutional of the following crisis that led to the dismissal of the the death by drowning of Prime . Minister . Gorton The Senate Chamber was the then resigned his Senate seat place where parliaments were and won Holt’s vacant House of opened—usually after a federal Representatives’ seat of Higgins .

THE USHER OF THE BLACK ROD LEADING THE election . On these occasions, GOVERNOR – GENERAL INTO THE SENATE members of the House of Repre- CHAMBER IN THE 1970S. sentatives would be summoned NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF AUSTRALIA to walk across King’s Hall to join the senators to hear the Gov- The Senate was established to ernor-General or the Monarch give an equal say to each original Australian State, with the smaller States having the same number of senators as the larger ones . This THE SENATE CHAMBER IN SESSION IN THE LATE 1980S. THE COLOUR RED IS USED IN THE CHAMBER, FOLLOWING THE TRADITION OF THE HOUSE OF LORDS IN GREAT BRITAIN. was a crucial part of the Federa- SENATE CHAMBER RESEARCH tion agreement . In time, senators’ loyalty to their party became more important than State loyalties . Since 1949, proportional repre- sentation has made it easier for minor parties to win seats in the Senate than in the House of Rep- resentatives . Debate in the Senate is controlled by the President of the Senate who, like the Speaker of the House, sits in a prominent position in the Chamber . While the Government is formed by the party which holds a majority in the House of Repre- sentatives, it may not necessarily

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.7 THE BUILDING KING’S HALL

In 1931, a journalist for the Herald, Joe Alexander, was expelled from the House of FORMER PRIME MINISTER LIES IN STATE IN Representatives Chamber and its KING’S HALL IN 1951. (ONLY SIX YEARS EARLIER IN 1945, surrounds for refusing to reveal PRIME MINISTER LAY IN STATE THERE.) the source of a leaked document . NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF AUSTRALIA He was allowed, however, to keep working on the Senate side of the building. For the five months that the ban remained in place, Alex- ander was often seen wandering along an imaginary line running down the middle of King’s Hall, waving at members of the House of Representatives with whom he wanted to speak .

King’s Hall was the hub of Curtin lay in state here after his the building . Open to the public death in office in 1945. During the from the earliest days, this space 1963 Royal Tour, Prime Minister was far more than just a formal Menzies complimented Queen function room or foyer . It came Elizabeth with the words of an to symbolise the openness of Elizabethan poet Barnabe Googe, parliamentary democracy and ‘I did but see her passing by, and representative government in yet I love her ‘til I die’ . Australia . Even in the 1970s, when King’s Hall was well placed for new concerns about security led journalists . They could observe to the introduction of a separate most of the human traffic in the entrance for the public under the building from this central position, front stairs, King’s Hall remained as members crossed between the open to the public . The openness two sides of the building, went into of this old building now seemsre- the library or down to the Members’ markable, particularly in compari- Dining Room . ‘If you waited in King’s son with the Australian Parliament Hall, you would meet anybody you House . wanted to see,’ said one veteran King’s Hall was the place where journalist . ‘It was an ant’s nest great public ceremonies were within a rabbit warren .’ King’s Hall held, politicians and journalists was buzzing in THE STATUE OF KING DOMINATES KING’S HALL. HE WAS THE REIGNING MONARCH mingled and prime ministers when the Senate’s refusal to pass WHEN OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE OPENED IN 1927. brushed shoulders with ordinary supply bills led to the dismissal of MUSEUM OF AUSTRALIAN DEMOCRACY COLLECTION citizens . Prime Minister John the Whitlam Government .

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.8 THE THE CABINET BUILDING ROOM

to call an attendant, usually to take a message from a minister to someone in their office or depart- ment . A wall safe was used to store Cabinet submissions and other highly confidential papers. In the early years, there were persistent rumours about eaves- dropping through the ceiling . The culprits were assumed to be journalists, whose offices were just above, although this THE ORIGINAL ROUND CABINET TABLE. was never proved . The Press was NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF AUSTRALIA much more likely to hear what was happening directly from Cabinet is the group of senior notetakers—senior public servants members of Cabinet . When the ministers led by the Prime Minister who recorded Cabinet discussions Cabinet Room was extended, who meet to make most of the and decisions . The notetakers the temporary Press offices on major decisions of government . began their work in 1940 during the the roof above were removed . Cabinet meetings are confidential first Menzies Government. Records In later years, the room was also and secret . Even new govern- of Cabinet decisions before checked regularly for electronic ments are not allowed to see the that time were generally poor or listening devices . records of a previous govern- undocumented . White buttons on ment’s meetings, as records are the edge of the table were used not released for at least thirty years . In the Cabinet Room, members of the Government can argue and disagree, but when decisions are debated openly in Parliament, the Government presents a . In 1973, the Cabinet Room was enlarged, taking in the former verandah . The original small Cabinet table with seating for 10 to 12 ministers was replaced . The new larger table accommodated all 27 ministers of ’s Cabinet (1972–75) . Thick doors were installed in an attempt to make the Cabinet Room totally THE LARGE TABLE MADE FOR GOUGH WHITLAM’S CABINET, soundproof . Small tables in the THE ONLY ONE SINCE 1956 TO INCLUDE ALL MINISTERS (1974). corners were used by Cabinet NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF AUSTRALIA

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.9 THE THE BUILDING GARDENS

more private . The parliamentary One politician set up his beehives gardens were central to architect there and used the jars of honey as John Smith Murdoch’s vision for peace offerings to members of the the building . Parliamentarians opposing parties . wanted private gardens, as they The gardens also provided had enjoyed the attractive gardens floral decoration for offices and of the State Parliament House in the dining rooms . The harmony Melbourne . Once the Old Parlia- created by John Smith Murdoch ment House gardens had grown, between the building and its they became a focal point for unpretentious gardens was formal and informal gatherings, recognised when they were listed sporting activities, recreation and on the Register of the National relaxation . The sporting facilities Estate . The Register cites the included tennis courts, a bowling importance of the gardens as ‘ex- green, cricket pitch and later, pressing their history in plantings, squash courts . sports facilities, modest features The gardens were used for and layout patterns’ . When Par- formal events associated with liament left in 1988, the National IN 1932 ROBERT BROINOWSKI, SECRETARY OF royal visits and the opening of Par- Capital Authority took over the THE JOINT HOUSE DEPARTMENT, TOOK THE liament . Some politicians used the management of the gardens . In INITIATIVE TO COMPLETE THE GARDENS. gardens to launch new policies and 2002, the gardens were refur- HIS OPEN GARDEN DESIGN WAS BASED ON initiatives, and journalists using bished with a fresh design and PATTERNED ROSE AND ANNUALS DISPLAY BEDS, the gardens as a backdrop for tele- upgraded amenities . SET IN LAWNS AND WITH A MINIMUM OF TREES. vision programs . Others thought NATIONAL LIBRARY OF AUSTRALIA of creative uses for the gardens .

Sometimes even politicians need to get away from people AERIAL VIEW OF THE BUILDING AND SURROUNDING GARDENS IN THE 1940S. and politics . The gardens on NATIONAL LIBRARY OF AUSTRALIA either side of the building gave them the chance to do that . The gardens were for the exclusive use of members and senators, although parliamentary staff also had access to them at certain times . Surrounding cypress hedges, planted around the edge of the gardens, acted as a wind break and made the gardens feel

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.10 THE OLD PARLIAMENT EVENTS HOUSE OPENS 1927

On 9 May 1927, thousands of people flocked to Canberra for the official opening of the new Parliament House by His Royal Highness the Duke of . Invited guests included parliamentarians and their wives, State premiers, judges, bishops, lord mayors, diplomats and senior military offi- cials . They were joined by 15 000 members of the general public, many of whom camped in tents and cars on the paddocks that surrounded the building . The Duke and Duchess of York arrived in a horse-drawn carriage AIR FORCE AND CIVILIAN AIRCRAFT FL Y OVER THE ROYAL ENTOURAGE to a noisy welcome . The tooting AS IT MAKES ITS WAY BY CARRIAGE TO OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE IN 1927. of 1500 motor cars added to the ONE PILOT DIED IN A CRASH LATER THAT DAY. cheering and hand clapping . After NATIONAL LIBRARY OF AUSTRALIA being greeted by the Gover- nor-General, his wife Lady Stone- haven, Prime Minister Stanley Chamber for more speeches . In a Melbourne Bruce and Mrs Bruce, final ceremony, the Duke unveiled the royal couple walked up the the statue of his father, King carpeted steps to join Dame Nellie George V, which stands today in Melba to sing the national anthem King’s Hall. The official party then ‘God Save the King’ . Unfortunately attended a lunch of turtle soup, the main chorus was drowned poached salmon and Canberra out as an RAAF squadron flew pudding . At the time, alcohol overhead . Prime Minister Bruce, was not allowed in the national in top hat and tails, delivered the capital, so the drink of the day was official welcoming speech. The non-alcoholic fruit punch . The Duke, in the dress uniform of an crowd outside dined on Sargeants admiral, spoke of the opening as ‘a meat pies and scones . However, landmark in Australia’s history and the organisers had over–catered the birth of a greater awareness and two truck loads of meat pies, of Australia’s destiny as one of the sausage rolls, prawns and fish had great self-governing units of the to be buried at the nearby Quean- British Empire’ . beyan tip! THE DUKE AND DUCHESS OF YORK IN 1927, FLANKED At 11 .00 am, the Duke formally BY THE GOVERNOR-GENERAL AND HIS WIFE, opened the front doors of the DURING THE SINGING OF ‘GOD SAVE THE KING’. building with a large 15 carat gold NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF AUSTRALIA key, then proceeded to the Senate

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.11 THE SECOND THE WORLD WAR EVENTS 1939–45

The years 1939–45 marked a greeted on the front steps by the men and women were placed in volatile period for the House of Minister for the Army, jobs to support the war effort . Representatives . In September and taken to the Prime Minister’s Other regulations included con- 1939, when it was Prime Minister Suite. At his first meeting, MacAr- scription for home service and Robert Menzies’ ‘melancholy duty’ thur put his arm around Prime restriction of sporting events . to announce that Australia was Minister Curtin’s shoulders and Wartime also changed the at war, there was disunity in his said, ‘We two, you and I, will see role of women . With men away . By 1941, he this thing through together . We fighting, women took over tradi- had resigned and Country Party can do it and we will do it . You take tionally male jobs . This shift was leader Arthur Fadden became care of the rear and I will handle reflected in politics as well . In Prime Minister . Fadden led for just the front .’ 1943, Senator 40 days before his Government and Dame MP became was defeated on the floor of the the first women to be elected to House . It was Labor Prime Minis- the Federal Parliament . ter, John Curtin, who declared that Australia was at war with Japan in 1941 . He brought stability to wartime administration until his death in office in 1945. Deputy Prime Minister Frank Forde took over for seven days until the Labor Party elected a new leader . Ben Chifley won the ballot. He took office just before the War ended in August 1945 . From 1941, the threat of Japanese invasion was very real for . Like the rest of Canberra, the building was blacked out at night . White lines GENERAL DOUGLAS MACARTHUR ON THE were painted on the footpaths STEPS OF THE BUILDING IN 1942. to direct members back to their AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL #136227 hotels after dark . The lives of Australians were In 1942, US General Douglas regulated so that resources MacArthur visited Old Parlia- could be directed to the war ment House shortly after he effort . The Federal Government WORKERS FROM OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE was appointed Supreme Allied introduced identification cards STAND IN THE AIR RAID TRENCHES THAT WERE Commander in the South West as well as the rationing of petrol, DUG INTO THE SENATE GARDENS. Pacific. Wearing his trademark AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL #136211 food and clothing . Over 900 000 custom-made silk uniform, he was

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.12 THE THE FEDERAL EVENTS ELECTION 1949

In 1949 Australians went to the recruitment of a publicity firm to victory signalled the beginning polls to elect a new federal gov- help with the campaign . Menzies of a long period of conservative ernment . Voters knew at the time was portrayed as a man of the domination of Australian federal that their choice would have a big people, an imaginative and deter- politics . Menzies led the Coalition influence on their country’s future. mined leader, the right man to lead to victory time and time again, Should they choose the Labor surviving narrowly in 1961but Government, which had taken mostly winning by a comfortable them through most of the War and majority . He became Australia’s into peacetime? Or should they longest serving Prime Minister: his strike out in a new direction? second term lasted 16 years . The 1949 election turned out to be a Two political parties competed landmark in Australian history . for popular support and presented voters with sharply contrasting policies . The , led by Ben Chifley, empha- sised a commitment to the less fortunate section of the commu- nity and believed governments had a vital role to play in creat- ing the right conditions for full employment, provision of housing and looking after the health needs MENZIES WAS A CHARISMATIC SPEAKER of people . WHO DOMINATED PARLIAMENTARY DEBATE FOR MANY YEARS. Robert Menzies presented the THE BULLETIN NOV. 1949 new Liberal Party as the party of free enterprise . In coalition with the Country Party, he promised lower taxes, smaller government Australia into the future . Adver- and the removal of unnecessary tisements drew attention to his controls . The Liberals also pro- virile leadership, suggesting that moted themselves as a party that Chifley’s approach was tired and cared about such social issues as his party’s policies old-fashioned . health, education and the welfare On election night, as the votes of the elderly . Above all they guar- reached the tally rooms around anteed the security of individuals Australia, the trend quickly and families against communism GOING MY WAY? BY TED SCORFIELD. became clear: the Opposition and . THE BULLETIN NOV. 1949 parties had achieved a huge swing, Chifley mistakenly believed that turning a 40 per cent minority in voters would recognise Menzies the House of Representatives and his colleagues as yesterday’s into a 60 per cent majority . The men . The Liberal Party introduced Liberals won 54 seats, the Country a new style of politics with the Party 20, and Labor 47 . The

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.13 THE THE ROYAL EVENTS VISIT 1954

QUEEN ELIZABETH II AND THE DUKE OF THE QUEEN OPENS A NEW SESSION OF PARLIAMENT IN THE SENATE CHAMBER STANDING ON THE WET FRONT IN 1954. SHE SITS IN THE VICE–REGAL CHAIR AND HER HUSBAND, THE DUKE STEPS OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE. OF EDINBURGH, SITS TO HER LEFT IN THE CONSORT’S CHAIR. NATIONAL LIBRARY OF AUSTRALIA NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF AUSTRALIA

Huge crowds turned out to see royal couple stood on the front Once in the Senate Chamber, Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke steps to review 4000 servicemen the Queen took her place in the of Edinburgh when they toured presenting arms in a royal salute . Vice-Regal Chair . She said it was Australia in 1954 . It was Australia’s As the national anthem God Save a joy for her to address the House first visit by a reigning monarch. the Queen played, 3000 school ‘not as a Queen from far away but The whirlwind eight week tour children formed an Australian flag as your Queen and a part of your covered all State capital cities and and the words ‘Our Queen’ . Parliament’ . She then added, ‘I am provincial centres and delighted the first ruling sovereign to visit Thousands of spectators the Australian public . Australia, it is clear that the events braved wet weather to glimpse the of today make a piece of history On 15 February 1954, the events through a sea of umbrellas . which fills me with deep pride and most significant event of the tour One of them, Meryl Hunter, recalls the most heartfelt pleasure…’ occurred . Her Majesty opened the rehearsal for the royal visit: the third session of the twentieth ‘The daughter [Heather Menzies] Although the ceremony lasted Federal Parliament . She was the of one of our more famous prime only 15 minutes, it had enduring first ruling sovereign of the British ministers stood in for the Queen significance for the people of Commonwealth to do so . and we joined in the laughter as Australia . she giggled her way through the The Queen arrived wearing her ceremony…Some days later we cream coronation gown embroi- watched the real Queen arrive…in dered with the floral emblems of tiara and sash to open Parliament .’ her Commonwealth countries . Before entering the building, the

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.14 THE THE DISMISSAL EVENTS 1975

On 11 November 1975, the govern . With supply blocked, the Kerr’s decision to sack Whitlam Governor-General Sir John Whitlam Government faced the is still surrounded by controversy . Kerr met Prime Minister Gough prospect of running out of money There are claims that he deceived Whitlam in the study at Gov- by the end of November . For four Whitlam and acted against estab- ernment House . Kerr handed weeks, the Parliament was dead- lished constitutional conventions . Whitlam a letter withdrawing his locked—neither the Government Others praise Kerr for bringing commission as Prime Minister . For nor the Opposition would change the crisis to an end and argue the first time in Australia’s history, their positions . that he acted as he had to . His- a governor-general had sacked a torians and lawyers will continue On 11 November Kerr intervened, prime minister . to argue over the significance of dismissed Whitlam as Prime Minister Kerr’s actions . This debate raises This event, commonly known and called upon Malcolm Fraser, the questions not only about what as the ‘Dismissal’, was the climax Leader of the Opposition, to form occurred on 11 November 1975, of a political crisis that began on a Caretaker Government on the but also about the future shape of 15 October 1975 when Liberal and condition that he immediately pass Australia’s system of government, National Country Party senators supply and call an election . Supply was the powers of Australia’s Head voted to defer consideration of passed and both Houses of Parlia- of State, and the meaning of the the Labor Government’s money ment were dissolved . The Liberal/ Australian Constitution . bills . Such bills, often referred to National Country Party Coalition won as supply, are the means by which a landslide victory in the election held the government obtains funds to on 13 .

THE PROCLAMATION OF THE DISSOLUTION OF PARLIAMENT BEING READ BY DAVID SMITH, THE OFFICIAL SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR -GENERAL, ON THE STEPS OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE ON 11 NOVEMBER 1975. NATIONAL LIBRARY OF AUSTRALIA

MALCOLM FRASER (LEFT) AND THE GOVERNOR–GENERAL SIR JOHN KERR. NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF AUSTRALIA

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.15 THE THE NATIONAL DECISIONS SERVICE ACT 1964

Conscription, or compulso- ry military service, has been a controversial issue throughout Australia’s history . The National Service Act 1964 introduced by the Liberal/Country Party Gov- ernment divided both Parliament and the country, particularly when young conscripts were sent soon after to fight in the War. IN THE YEAR FOLLOWING THE RE-INTRODUCTION OF It was not the first time that CONSCRIPTION, PRIME MINISTER MENZIES COMMITTED TROOPS a system of conscription was TO COMBAT DUTY IN THE . introduced and challenged in this THE AUSTRALIAN 1965 country . The Universal Service Scheme, instituted by Prime Minister in 1911, army’s numbers to 40 000 in order than 800 000 men registered . lasted until 1929 when it was abol- to meet other South-West Pacific About 63 000 were on scripted ished by the newly-elected Labor commitments . and more than 19 000 served in Government . Compulsory military Vietnam . Following widespread Under the National Service service for duty within Australia debate, anti-conscription and Scheme, all 20 year-old males was revived in 1939; soldiers had anti-Vietnam War demonstrations were required to register for to serve in defence of Australia within the Australian community, national service . Their names and its South-West Pacific terri- the Scheme was abolished on 5 De- were selected by the ‘birth- tories . The reintroduction of the cember 1972 by the newly elected day ballot’, in which men were National Service Scheme by the Whitlam Labor Government . Liberal Government in 1951 was randomly selected for national criticised for draining Regular service by their date of birth . Army finances and manpower and Marbles marked with a date were was discontinued in 1959 . drawn out of a Tattersall’s lottery barrel . Such a draw occurred Selective National Service was every six months and on average, reintroduced in 1964 because an Australian male stood a one in the Menzies Government argued 10 or one in 12 chance of being that conscription was necessary selected . The Leader of the to safeguard Australia’s security Opposition, , de- against the spread of communism . scribed this system as a ‘lottery The issue was fiercely debated of death’ . Those who were in the House of Representatives, selected for national service with the Labor Party morally were required to serve for two opposed to the Bill that passed years full‑time in the regular THE LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION, ARTHUR CALWELL, in November 1964 . By May 1965, army, and three years part-time WAS VEHEMENTLY OPPOSED TO CONSCRIPTION. Australian soldiers were involved in the reserves . NATIONAL LIBRARY OF AUSTRALIA with the war in Vietnam, and Menzies planned to raise the Between 1965 and 1972, more

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.16 THE THE REFERENDUM DECISIONS 1967

Australians seldom vote ‘yes’ census, and to change discrim- in referendums . Yet on 27 May inatory references to them in 1967, an overwhelming majority the Constitution . They drafted of Australians voted to alter the amendments to the Constitution Constitution . The changes allowed and established a political lobby A 1967 REFERENDUM POSTER ISSUED BY THE Aboriginal people to be counted group—the Federal Council for the FEDERAL COUNCIL FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF in the national census and the Advancement of Aborigines and ABORIGINES AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDERS. Commonwealth to make laws Torres Strait Islanders (FCAATSI) . NATIONAL LIBRARY OF AUSTRALIA relevant to them . Before this time, The main aim of the group was the States controlled all matters to push for a referendum and in regarding Aboriginal people . 1958, a petition with over 100 000 signatures was presented to the Throughout the 20th century, House of Representatives . several events organised by Ab- original leaders and activists raised A key development over this public awareness of the Aboriginal ten year campaign was a meeting movement for equality . In 1928, in 1965 between Prime Minister the Association for the Protection Robert Menzies and executive of Native Races advocated the members of FCAATSI . At this need for a to meeting, Indigenous issues from investigate the possibility of the the States of Australia, reasons Commonwealth taking control of for a referendum and changes to Aboriginal affairs . The Australian the Constitution were discussed . Aborigines’ League, established Despite mounting community in 1932 by activist William support, it was not until 1966 that Cooper in Melbourne, challenged the Government, led by Prime the living conditions of Aborig- Minister Harold Holt, agreed to inal people . In 1938, the first hold a referendum . national protest was held by the The 90 .7 per cent ‘yes’ vote Aborigines’ Progress Association brought welcome changes to the on the 150th anniversary of Eu- Federal legislation, addressing land ropean colonisation of Australia . rights, discriminatory practices, and It was organised by both Cooper preservation of cultural heritage . and Jack Patten, activists who The referendum is remembered lobbied the Government for citi- as one of the significant victories zenship rights . They renamed 26 for Aboriginal people in the 1960s, January as the ‘Day of Mourning’ . along with winning the right to In 1957, and vote through The Commonwealth campaigned for a Electoral Act 1962 . referendum for Aboriginal people to be included in the Australian

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.17 THE RACIAL THE DISCRIMINATION DECISIONS ACT 1975

word dictation test set by customs Harold Holt’s Immigration Act 1958 officials in any European language. abolished the dictation test, but If the applicant passed, they the entry permit system was still would then be tested in another racially-based . language . After 1909, no-one who The of- sat the test passed . ficially ended in 1973 when Prime Successive Australian Govern- Minister Gough Whitlam declared, ments sought to increase Austra- ‘As an island nation of predom- lia’s population with child endow- inantly European inhabitants ment payments and migration situated on the edge of Asia, we incentives for British people . As cannot afford the stigma of racial- British citizens in the Asia Pacific ism .’ The Racial Discrimination Act IN 1982 SOME OF THE FI RST MIGRANTS region, Australians felt vulnerable . 1975 followed . Immigration Minis- FROM VIETNAM WERE MRS TRAN DAI DE, This fear was increased by Japan’s ter, , promoted ‘multi- DAUGHTER HUYNH NGOC LIEN (6) AND offensive in the Second World culturalism’, a concept that valued HUSBAND MR HUYNH TRAN DUONG. War and the Communist victory in cultural diversity and underpinned NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF AUSTRALIA China . The post-war immigration the policies of both the Australian policy was ‘populate or perish’— Labor Party Government and the The Racial Discrimination Act increase the population to defend Liberal/National Country Party . 1975 meant the end of the White Australia. Australia’s first Immi- Australia Policy . This policy had gration Minister, Arthur Calwell, endorsed a preference for British targeted Northern Europeans . migrants since Federation when Their customs and appearance The Immigration Restriction Act were considered suitable for 1901 limited migration to Aus- rapid assimilation into Austra- tralia . The immigration restric- lian culture . Calwell argued that tions were supported by many, Australians were too intolerant to including the union movement, cope with non-Europeans . Many which believed that cheap Asian agreed with his infamous throw- or South Sea Islander labour away line in 1947, ‘Two Wongs do undermined Australian working not make a white ’. conditions . In 1904, over 4000 During the 1950s, the White islanders were deported under Australia Policy was widely The Restriction Act . condemned . In 1951 and 1952, The exclusion or deportation of the Federal Government signed migrants could not be determined migration agreements with Italy by race since Britain opposed and Greece . Government aid pro- racially-based restrictions . The grams welcomed large numbers selection process for Australian of Africans and Asians to study in migrants took the form of a 50 Australia . Immigration Minister HAROLD HOLT, MINISTER FOR IMMIGRATION, AND ZARA HOLT WITH TWO IMMIGRANT GIRLS, CA. 1950. NATIONAL LIBRARY OF AUSTRALIA

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.18 THE WORLD THE HERITAGE PROPERTIES DECISIONS CONSERVATION ACT 1983

The conservation movement January 1983, around 50 people in grew in response to arrived at the blockade every day . development in environmentally Over 1000 people were arrested . significant areas. The United In early 1983, Labor leader Tasmanian Group became the Bob Hawke promised to save world’s first green political party the Franklin River as part of his in 1971 . Protest groups tried and federal election campaign . Labor failed to stop the HEC flooding won office with a large swing on 5 in 1972 . By 1976 March . By May, The World Heritage the groups had united as the Properties Conservation Act 1983 Tasmanian Wilderness Society . became law . Their ‘No Dams’ campaign was underway when the State Labor Government legislated for the Gordon-below-Franklin dam in ‘NO DAMS’ PROTEST STICKER. 1981 . In June 1980, 10 000 people THE TASMANIAN WILDERNESS SOCIETY had rallied in to save the Franklin, the largest Tasmanian protest ever . In December 1981, a referen- dum offered Tasmanians a choice On 1 July 1983, the High Court between two dam proposals on upheld the Federal Government’s the Gordon River . The referendum World Heritage Properties Conser- results were unclear—53 per cent vation Act 1983 against a chal- preferred the Lower Gordon option; lenge from the Tasmanian State 9 per cent the Upper Gordon and 38 Government . This stopped the per cent protested by writing ‘No Franklin River dam and confirmed Dams’ on the ballot . A State election the Federal Government’s power followed with a change of govern- to protect world heritage sites . ment . New Liberal Premier, Robin Gray, threatened to secede from Long before the Gordon-be- the Commonwealth if the Federal low-Franklin dam proposal was Government interfered with State DEBATE IN THE HOUSE OF put forward in 1978, successive affairs. The Wilderness Society REPRESENTATIVES IN 1983. Tasmanian Governments supported leader, Bob Brown, toured Australia NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF AUSTRALIA increased hydro-electricity gen- raising support for the campaign . eration . Cheap electricity meant He hoped this would persuade opportunities for industrial devel- Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser to opment and employment growth . overrule the State legislation . The State’s largest employer, the Hydro-Electric Commission (HEC), Protesters formed a blockade at controlled water resources and was the dam site on 14 December 1982, government owned . the day on which the area was listed as a world heritage site . During

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.19 THE PRIME MINISTERS OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE

STANLEY MELBOURNE BRUCE (1876–1953) (1879–1939) (1883–1967) Prime Minister 1929–32, Prime Minister 1932–39, Prime Minister 1923–29, Australian Labor Party United Australia Party Nationalist Party James Scullin had the difficult One of the great dramas of Par- A Gallipoli veteran and experi- task of managing Australia’s liament’s history began with the enced businessman, Stanley Mel- economy with its substantial defection of Joseph Lyons from bourne Bruce entered Parliament foreign debts at the beginning Labor in 1931 . Anti-socialist pol- in 1918 . Within little more than of the of the iticians regrouped around Lyons four years he was Prime Minister . 1930s, while leading a party to form the United Australia Party . Among his enduring achievements reluctant to cut social welfare and This party won the 1931 federal was the Coalition agreement wages . A series of bitter splits election and Lyons became Prime between the non-Labor parties . destroyed his Government in less Minister . Lyons began his polit- He oversaw Parliament’s move than two years . In spite of the ical career as a fiery Tasmanian to Canberra in 1927, but lost his sectarianism of the time, Scullin socialist . He had been forced to go seat at the 1929 election . Despite was Australia’s first Catholic Prime to work at of nine, but was winning it back in 1931, Bruce had Minister . He began his working later able to return to school and little real influence. Out‑manoeu- life as a grocer and was a leading became a teacher . He was Premier vred by Joe Lyons after the fall of campaigner against conscription of Tasmania for five years in the the Scullin Government, he agreed during the First World War . 1920s, and then moved to federal to serve as High Commissioner in politics in 1929 . He died in and represent Australia at office in April 1939. the .

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.20 THE PRIME MINISTERS OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE

SIR SIR ROBERT MENZIES ARTHUR FADDEN (1880–1961) (1894–1978) (1895–1973) Prime Minister April 1939, Prime Minister 1939–41, Prime Minister March 1941, Australian Country Party United Australia Party Australian Country Party

Earle Page became Caretaker Robert Menzies was Prime Min- Arthur Fadden first took centre Prime Minister for 19 days after the ister for a total of almost 19 years stage in public life in 1918 when death of Joseph Lyons in 1939 . One and a leading figure in Federal he and an alderman took charge of the founding members of the Parliament during his entire period of the city of Mackay after a Country Party, Page entered Federal in the House—from his election destructive cyclone . Later Fadden Parliament in 1919 . He set out the in 1934 until his retirement in became an accountant, and went conditions of the coalition between 1966 . He was a founder of both into State politics . In 1936, he was his party and the conservatives—an the United Australia Party and the elected to Federal Parliament . arrangement still in place today . Liberal Party . Menzies grew up in He resigned from the Country Once Robert Menzies became the Jeparit, a Victorian country town, Party in protest at Earle Page’s new leader of the United Australia where his parents kept a store . His attack on Menzies in 1939, but Party, Earle Page stepped down . At was a political family, prominent in became Country Party leader in the time, his reputation suffered the local community. Menzies’ first 1940 . After the failure of Menzies’ because he attacked Menzies’ lead- political tutor was his grandfather, first Government, he became ership credentials on the floor of the John Sampson, who had been a Prime Minister himself—the only House of Representatives . He was, union organiser driven from the Country Party member to do so however, returned to Cabinet by mines by an owners’ boycott . in his own right . He inherited a Menzies as Health Minister in 1949 . deeply divided Coalition which fell after little more than a month when two independents crossed the floor.

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.21 THE PRIME MINISTERS OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE

JOHN CURTIN FRANCIS FORDE BEN CHIFLEY (1885–1945) (1890–1983) (1885–1951) Prime Minister 1941–45, Prime Minister , Prime Minister 1945–49, Australian Labor Party Australian Labor Party Australian Labor Party

John Curtin came to power in Frank Forde, like Earle Page, Ben Chifley’s childhood in 1941 when Arthur Fadden was was a Caretaker Prime Minister . He a wattle and daub hut outside defeated on the floor of the House took office for eight days after the Bathurst has become Labor of Representatives . He led Labor death of John Curtin . A loyal and legend . A railway worker and to a landslide victory in the 1943 dependable Deputy Prime Min- locomotive driver before he elections . Many revere him as one ister, Frank Forde was by-passed entered Parliament, Chifley served of Australia’s greatest leaders . twice for the leadership . In 1934 as Curtin’s closest colleague and During the Second World War, he lost narrowly to John Curtin Treasurer throughout the Second he was able to transcend party and again in 1945, to Ben Chifley. World War . As Prime Minister, differences for the sake of national Nevertheless he strongly support- he retained the respect of most unity . General Douglas Macarther ed both leaders during the Second Australians, even after his unsuc- hailed him as ‘one of the greatest World War as a member of the War cessful attempt to nationalise the of the war time statesmen’ . Curtin Council, as Minister for the Army banks and Labor’s defeat in the went to work as a copyboy for The and later as Minister for Defence . 1949 election . His sudden death Age newspaper at the age of 14, He entered Federal Parliament in in 1951 overshadowed the cele- and later became a union organis- 1922 as the Member for Capricor- bration of Australia’s first 50 years er and journalist. He was the first nia, serving for 24 years until his as a nation, and he lay in state in federal president of the Timber defeat in 1946 . King’s Hall before a Workers’ Union, and Victorian at Bathurst . secretary of the Anti‑Conscription League during the Second World War. He died in office and lay in state in King’s Hall before his burial in Perth .

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.22 THE PRIME MINISTERS OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE

SIR ROBERT MENZIES HAROLD HOLT SIR JOHN MCEWEN (1894–1978) (1908–1967) (1900–1980) Prime Minister 1949–66, Prime Minister 1967, Prime Minister Dec 1967 – Jan Liberal Party of Australia Liberal Party of Australia 1968, Australian Country Party

Robert Menzies’ second term Harold Holt’s short-lived prime John McEwen was Deputy as Prime Minister began in 1949, ministership ended in tragedy Prime Minister when Harold Holt after the Coalition took power in when he drowned during the 1967 drowned, and served as Prime a landslide win over Labor . He had Christmas holidays . Holt entered Minister while the Liberals chose been leader of the newly formed Parliament during the re-shaping a new leader . McEwen was a Liberal Party since its foundation of conservative political forces public servant, a soldier and a in 1944, and shaped many of in the 1930s, and was closely as- farmer before entering Parlia- its policies . He retired in 1966 . sociated with Sir Robert Menzies ment . He was once expelled from Only he and , who throughout his career . His refuge his party, after accepting a port- resigned the prime ministership in from politics was a beach house at folio in the Lyons–Page Coalition 1915, have chosen to depart the Portsea, near where he drowned . Government in 1937 . He gained a job voluntarily . He won an increased majority at reputation as a tough fighter for the 1966 election, but his death the interests of both farmers and precipitated a long-running lead- the Country Party . His particular ership crisis in the Liberal Party . foe within the Coalition was William McMahon, whom he vetoed as Holt’s successor .

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.23 THE PRIME MINISTERS OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE

JOHN GORTON SIR WILLIAM MCMAHON GOUGH WHITLAM (1911–2002) (1908–1988) (1916–2014) Prime Minister 1968–71, Prime Minister 1971–72, Prime Minister 1972–75, Liberal Party of Australia Liberal Party of Australia Australian Labor Party

John Gorton was appointed William McMahon’s career Gough Whitlam entered Prime Minister soon after the spanned 23 years, beginning with Parliament in 1952 and made his death of Harold Holt . Earlier he the Liberal triumph of 1949, when early political career in the worst had been elected to the federal Labor was swept from power . years of the Labor Party Split, Senate as a Liberal candidate in Elected in 1949, after training as a when it appeared his party might the Menzies landslide of 1949 . lawyer and economist, McMahon never govern again . Through Gorton’s independent and ex- became Prime Minister in the the 1960s, Whitlam reformed acting style of leadership put closing days of Liberal power after the Labor Party, modernising him at odds with his own party . a long and very public struggle many of its policies . He became In early 1971, a party motion of with John Gorton . He had a great Prime Minister in 1972 and won confidence resulted in a tied vote. deal of ministerial experience, but an early election in 1974, forced Gorton used a casting vote to vote paired with this was a history of by the threat of the Senate himself out of office. He remained internal party conflict and distrust. blocking money bills . In 1975, on the backbench until he resigned His Government was defeated by his Government was dismissed from the Liberal Party in 1975 . Labor in 1972 . by the Governor-General after the Senate refused to pass the money bills . He was defeated by a massive Liberal landslide in the resulting election .

A HISTORY OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE — P.24 THE PRIME MINISTERS OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE

MALCOLM FRASER BOB HAWKE (1930–2015) (1929–) Prime Minister 1975–83, Prime Minister 1983–91, Liberal Party of Australia Australian Labor Party

Malcolm Fraser came to power Bob Hawke was Prime Minister during a time of crisis, following within three years of entering the dismissal of Gough Whitlam Parliament, and led Australia after the Senate refused to pass for longer than any other Labor the Government’s money bills . prime minister . Hawke’s early He won the 1975 election with a career was in the massive landslide, gaining a House movement, which he represent- of Representatives majority of ed in important wage cases in 55 . Fraser entered Parliament in the 1960s . A brilliant advocate, his twenties, after studying at he cultivated a popular larrikin Melbourne Grammar School and image . He was President of Oxford University . He played a the Australian Council of Trade leading role in the Liberal infight- Unions from 1970 to 1980 . His ing which led to the downfall of landslide win over Malcolm Fras- John Gorton as Prime Minister . er’s Liberal/National Coalition in His Government was defeated by 1983 laid the foundations for 13 Labor in 1983 . years of Labor rule . During this time, Labor moved away from many of its traditional industrial and trade policies .

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