The White Hat Guide to Government House

This grand house in stunning surroundings was designed by William Wardell and J. J. Clark  It took over as Government House from Toorak House which had served in that purpose from 1854 to 1876 and was Victoria's first purpose-built Government House. It was built as the residence for the Governor of the Colony of Victoria. With Federation in 1901, Melbourne became the de-facto capital of Australia until Canberra was built. As a result Melbourne's Parliament House became the Parliament House of Australia and Victoria's Government House became the Government House of Australia housing the Governor General. During this period Stonington Mansion was used as Victoria's Government House. In recent years Government House has been open to the public on Australia Day

Take tram no 8 in Swanston Street (heading south) and alight at stop 21 in Domain Road.

Some forthcoming events at Government House:

Government House Open Day As part of Australia Day, citizens and visitors are invited to visit Government House, inspect many rooms not normally open to the public and enjoy a picnic on the lawns. Music and entertainment throughout the day.   Our rating - 5 Hats Free entry 10am to 4pm, 26th January 2018 Government House

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