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.
Naming of Canberra ceremony, 12 March 1913
National Library of Australia, VN4503893
Naming of Canberra ceremony, 12 March 1913
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.
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