Why was Parliament House built in Canberra?

Hi Chayse. Section 125 of the Australian Constitution says that the national capital had to be located within New South Wales, at least 100 miles away from Sydney. At Federation in 1901, the search began for a suitable location for the national capital to be built. The site was chosen in 1908 and named Canberra in 1913.

Lady Denman reads the name of the national capital. Prime Minister Fischer waves his hat in the air while the Governor-General and others look on.

Naming of Canberra ceremony, 12 March 1913

National Library of Australia, VN4503893

Naming of Canberra ceremony, 12 March 1913

Lady Denman reads the name of the national capital. Prime Minister Fischer waves his hat in the air while the Governor-General and others look on.

National Library of Australia, VN4503893

Description

This photograph captures the official naming ceremony of Australia’s national capital on 12 March 1913. Lady Denman, wife of the Governor-General, stood on a platform to declare that the capital of Australia would be called Canberra. Prime Minister Andrew Fisher is seen waving his hat in celebration, while Governor-General Lord Denman and other dignitaries look on. A British flag flies on a pole behind the group.