Join us for a panel conversation at Victoria’s Government House to celebrate 150 years of one of Australia’s most remarkable historic residences.

Built between 1872 and 1876 at the height of Melbourne’s gold rush prosperity, Government House stands as a defining example of 19th-century Italianate architecture, renowned for its grandeur, craftsmanship and enduring design.

Within the historic ballroom, hear from Professor Philip Goad, Associate Professor Ursula de Jong and Dr Soon-Tzu Speechley, moderated by Amy Muir, as they reveal the unique design, construction and purpose of Government House, highlighting its architectural significance within Melbourne’s design landscape.

Together, they’ll explore the building in the context of Melbourne’s rapid expansion during the gold rush years, alongside other Government Houses and institutional buildings across the region.

Panel speakers:

Professor Philip Goad, Chair of Architecture, University of Melbourne
Associate Professor Ursula de Jong, Architectural Historian, School of Architecture and Built Environment, Deakin University
Dr Soon-Tzu Speechley, Lecturer Urban and Cultural Heritage, University of Melbourne
Moderator: Amy Muir, Director at MUIR Architect, Lecturer at RMIT, Board Member of Open House Melbourne and former President of the Australian Institute of Architects (Victorian Chapter)

Following the panel, guests are invited to explore the historic State Apartments at Government House.

Presented by Government House and Open House Melbourne as part of Melbourne Design Week.

Event timing

5.15pm–Gates open
5.40pm–All guests to be seated
6pm–Official proceedings commence
7.45pm–Event ends

Important information to note before you book:

Please register each person attending, including children. Multiple registrations under one name are not permitted.
Photographic identification is required to gain entry for persons aged above 18. The registered name must match the name on the photo ID.
Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.
Guests may be photographed during the event and photos may be published online.
Dress: Smart Casual
Please advise of any accessibility requirements in the registration checkout.

Arriving on site

Entrance to Government House is via Government House Drive, off St Kilda Road.
Limited onsite parking is available within the grounds of Government House. Guests are encouraged to utilise public transport if possible.
For more information about visiting Government House, see here.

Contact the host of A Living Legacy: The Architectural and Design Story of Government House Victoria