In the Parliament building in Melbourne from 1855 is the main administrative body of the state of Victoria. Only in the period from 1901 to 1927 it became the seat of the Australian Parliament, which was later transferred to Canberra. The building itself, built in the 19th century, is one of the best examples of civil architecture of Britain in the world.

Interestingly, the idea of the construction of the building, which could meet the Parliament, was born even before the colony of Victoria has gained full self-government. This idea came to mind then-Governor Charles La Trobe, who instructed his subordinates to find a suitable place. The place was chosen very well - on the hill which was visible almost the entire city, because then the building height does not exceed two floors. An architect was appointed the Charles Pasley, which was deemed by his contemporaries, took a sample of his project of the City Hall in English Leeds. Later, some significant changes to the project made another architect Peter Kerr.

The construction of the Parliament building started in December 1855 and, by and large, lasted for almost 70 years! In 1856 was finished Halls of the Legislative Assembly of Victoria and the Legislative Council of Victoria. Then it was two separate buildings, between which passed the street Bourke street. In 1869 was built library, and after 10 years - the Queen's Hall and the lobby. During the gold rush in 1880-90s years – to the facade of the building facing spring street, added a colonnade and portico in classical style, which gave it a kind of monumentality. In 1893 he built the North wing, and 30 years later in 1929 – added rest rooms. Generally, the building project included in the construction of the dome, but the economic depression has prevented the implementation of this idea. However, the question of the construction of the dome still occasionally occurs in the government – the last time this proposal was made in 1992.