Old Government House

Old Government House – Where Australia’s Colonial Story Comes to Life

Tucked within the heritage-listed landscape of Parramatta Park and overlooking the Parramatta River, Old Government House is one of Australia’s most iconic and historically rich sites. Located on Burramatta Dharug Country, this Georgian-style residence is Australia’s oldest surviving public building and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, recognised as one of 11 convict sites that together tell the global story of forced migration and colonial expansion.

Constructed by convict labour beginning in 1799 and expanded under Governor Lachlan Macquarie in the early 1800s, Old Government House served as the country retreat of the first ten Governors of New South Wales. At a time when Sydney was still in its infancy, the estate was a centre for governance and planning. For more than 70 years, it was a working seat of power and an elite social and political hub.

Today, Old Government House stands as a beautifully restored time capsule, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience Australia's colonial beginnings. The building’s interiors have been carefully preserved and curated to reflect early 19th-century life, showcasing one of the country’s finest collections of Australian colonial furniture, decorative arts, and domestic items. Each room tells a story — not just of governors and their families, but of the countless convicts and servants who worked behind the scenes.

As you walk through the house, you’ll encounter rich human stories — of resilience, ambition, and change. Learn about Governor Macquarie and his wife Elizabeth, who helped shape early New South Wales. Discover the impact of convict labour, from skilled trades to domestic service. Meet the people whose stories are finally being recognised in Australia’s wider historical narrative.

Guided tours, led by knowledgeable National Trust volunteers, offer in-depth insights into these layered histories. Visitors can explore the house independently or join a guided session, with options for groups, schools, and themed tours available throughout the year.

Beyond the house itself, the surrounding parklands invite rest and reflection. Old Government House sits among expansive green spaces with views of the river and city skyline — perfect for a picnic or quiet stroll. It’s a serene place to consider how far Australia has come, and how much of its early history still resonates today.

The site also hosts rotating exhibitions, seasonal events, and educational programs. From heritage festivals and school holiday workshops to living history days and talks, there’s always something happening to bring history to life.

For schools, Old Government House offers curriculum-linked learning experiences through interactive storytelling, object-based education, and immersive tours. Students are encouraged to step into the roles of convicts, governors, and servants, deepening their understanding of early Australian life.

Importantly, Old Government House is a site of shared history, acknowledging both European and Aboriginal perspectives. The National Trust (NSW) works closely with the Burramatta people of the Dharug Nation, ensuring that stories of dispossession and resilience are included in the broader narrative.

Visitor Information:

Old Government House is open Thursday to Sunday, with guided tours offered regularly. The house is also available for private events, education programs, and group bookings.

• Opening Hours: Thursday–Sunday, 10am–4pm

• Address: Parramatta Park, Pitt Street Entrance, Parramatta NSW 2150

• Contact: (02) 9635 8149

• Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/places/old-government-house

Getting There:

Old Government House is easily accessible by public transport, with Parramatta Station a short walk away. Parking is also available in Parramatta Park.

Whether you're a local rediscovering your roots, a visitor exploring Western Sydney, or a student learning about the past, Old Government House offers a captivating, educational, and moving experience. From elegant drawing rooms to convict-built foundations, this treasured site invites you to step back in time — and reflect on the complex and shared stories that shaped the nation.