As you approach the High Court of Australia, look for a large plaque with tall images of a muscly kangaroo and emu on either side of a shield. The Australian Commonwealth Coat of Arms heralds the importance of this institution, which makes decisions that can determine the fate of the nation. This image is repeated in wood-panelled courtrooms within the brutalist architecture structure of concrete and glass.
Admire the court’s collection of art, all depicting important events and concepts in Australian history and society. Three inner courtrooms host proceedings that are frequently open to the public. Sit in on a session for an interesting cultural experience. It’s here that the most important cases in Australia are deliberated upon for hours at a time. Check the Court’s website for information on schedules of open sessions.
Learn more about the institution from the videos and informative installations in the Great Hall, which is also open to visitors. During free afternoon concerts, live music is enhanced by the impressive acoustics of the space. View temporary exhibitions with varied subjects. Enjoy a coffee and cake at the Chambers Café, which has a lovely view of the lake.
The modern-looking High Court of Australia is shaped as a huge 40-metre-tall (131-foot) cube, made of concrete and a wall of green glass. Walk to the front door, passing by a long water feature consisting of cascading pools with small fountains. The huge interior of the court resonates with the sounds of official business.
Find the High Court in the Parliamentary Zone by pretty Lake Burley Griffin. It’s located between the National Science and Technology Centre Questacon and the National Gallery. Ample parklands all around make up a welcoming precinct.
Get to the High Court of Australia easily by bus or ride your bike on the path around the lake. The court is open on weekdays and Sunday mornings with free entry. In place of a structured tour, learn more from a High Court guide who will talk you through the importance of what you’re seeing. Look for one to assist you in most of the rooms.
