The Galleries

What are the Galleries?

The House of Representatives Chamber has viewing galleries on two storeys. Those on the first floor have open views of the Chamber and seat up to 350 people. The gallery immediately behind the Speaker’s Chair is reserved for the media. The galleries on either side of the Chamber are open to the general public.

The second floor galleries are enclosed in sound-proofed glass. These galleries are used mainly for school groups and tour groups who need a translation or commentary to explain what is happening in the Chamber.

There is a special gallery on the floor of the House for very important visitors, such as official guests from other Parliaments.