About the display

Step into the heart of Australia's democracy with our new display celebrating the Parliamentary Handbook — a cornerstone of parliamentary history.

Explore this iconic publication, which has chronicled biographical and parliamentary records for over a century from 1901 to today.

From its earliest editions to the digital age, the Handbook offers a fascinating glimpse into the people of Australia’s Parliament. The Handbook helps tell the story of the federal parliament, incorporating much historic and contemporary information.

Information is sourced directly from parliamentarians, official parliamentary records and other primary material to provide an authoritative source.

Take the Handbook Challenge

Think you know your parliamentary history? Put your knowledge to the test with interactive questions designed to be answered using the Parliamentary Handbook website.

Whether you're a visitor, student or a lifelong learner, this challenge is a fun and engaging way to explore the depth of Australia's parliamentary system.

Can’t make it to Canberra? Use the Handbook to take the challenge from home:

1. How many parliamentarians have served in both the House of Representatives and the Senate?
2. Who is the electorate of Bullwinkel named in commemoration of?
3. Which First Nations parliamentarian was sung into parliament during their first speech?
4. Who is the longest-serving federal parliamentarian and for how long did they serve?
5. Who was the first Parliamentary Librarian?
6. When was the Standing Committee for Social Policy and Legal Affairs established?
7. Using your ‘advanced search’ skills, which Australian Prime Minister was born in Chile?
8. How many referendums have been held since Federation?
9. Who was the first Speaker of the House of Representatives?
10. How many women have been President of the Senate?

Reveal the answers.

Plan your visit

We welcome all visitors at Parliament House and are committed to making the building accessible to everyone. Plan your visit today and find out about accessibility at Parliament House.