Perth, the capital city of Western Australia, is a place steeped in rich history and captivating stories. Founded in 1829 as the Swan River Colony, Perth has witnessed the evolution of a small settlement into a vibrant metropolis. Its historical attractions offer a glimpse into the city’s past and provide a deeper understanding of its cultural heritage.
From the grandeur of the Perth Town Hall to the golden legacy of The Perth Mint, and the rustic charm of The Old Mill in South Perth, these landmarks stand as living testaments to the city’s evolution.
The Old Perth Fire Station and The Old Court House continue to grace the urban landscape, while The Old Perth Boys School, and The Archbishop’s Palace offer glimpses into a bygone era.
The Barracks Arch, The Treasury Buildings, The Royal Hotel, and many more historical buildings complete this remarkable ensemble, preserving Perth’s architectural heritage for generations to come.
In this article I will talk only about the historical attractions that belongs to the Perth city. If you want to read about the historical locations of Fremantle, click here. Also, I didn’t included in this article the historical churches of Perth or the museums, which have their own articles.
City of Perth short history
The Noongar people have inhabited the Perth area for over 45,000 years, with the wetlands on the Swan Coastal Plain being of great importance to them both spiritually and as a food source.
The Mooro, a Noongar clan, were the traditional owners of the present-day central business district area, which was part of the larger Noongar territory. In 2006, the Federal Court of Australia recognized Noongar native title over the Perth metropolitan area.
The West Australia Government and the South West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council reached a settlement in 2021, recognizing the Noongar people as the traditional owners.
The first documented European sighting of the Perth region was made by Dutch Captain Willem de Vlamingh and his crew in 1697. However, early European explorers deemed the area unsuitable for settlement due to its perceived inhospitability for agriculture.
Perth became the first “full-scale” European settlement in Western Australia in 1829, although a convict-supported settlement had already been established in Albany. The colony was initially known as the Swan River Colony.
Tensions between British settlers and the Noongar people escalated as the colony grew, resulting in conflicts and violent incidents. The Noongar people’s traditional way of life was restricted as agricultural activities increased. By the 1890s, miners heading to the goldfields also sought refuge in Noongar campsites.
Convicts were sent to Western Australia between 1850 and 1868 to address the labor shortage. Perth was proclaimed a city by Queen Victoria in 1856, but it remained a small town with a population of around 3,000 in 1870. The discovery of gold in Kalgoorlie and Coolgardie in the late 19th century triggered a mining boom, leading to significant population growth.
Western Australia joined the Federation of Australia in 1901, becoming the last colony to do so. Indigenous people faced restrictions from entering Perth from 1927 to 1954. A secession referendum in 1933 saw a majority in favor of seceding from the Australian Federation, but the British Parliament declined to consider the matter.
After World War II, Perth experienced rapid population growth and economic development. Public works projects, immigration, and foreign investment contributed to the city’s expansion.
The construction of highways and the closure of tramways transformed Perth’s urban design, aligning it more with North American cities. The mining boom of the 1960s further fueled Perth’s growth.
Perth gained global attention in 1962 when residents illuminated their houses and streets as American astronaut John Glenn passed overhead. The city became known as the “City of Light.” Since the mid-1960s, Perth’s prosperity has been driven by its role as the main service center for Western Australia’s resource industries, including mining and petroleum extraction.
Perth’s development and economic success continue to be influenced by its resource-rich surroundings, providing employment and income to its residents.
The Perth Town Hall
Perth Town Hall, located on the corner of Hay and Barrack streets in Perth, Western Australia, stands as the only town hall in Australia built by convicts. Constructed between 1867 and 1870, it held the distinction of being the tallest structure in Perth upon its completion.
Designed in the Victorian Free Gothic style by Richard Roach Jewell and James Manning, the hall’s construction involved both convicts and free men. Its interior decorations feature various motifs related to convicts, such as windows shaped like the broad arrow symbol and decorations resembling a hangman’s rope.
The foundation stone for Perth Town Hall was laid on 24 May 1867, accompanied by an elaborate ceremony that endured despite heavy rain. The hall has witnessed significant events, including the placement of a commemorative plaque during the 1929 centenary of Western Australia.
Throughout the 20th century, the ground floor of the hall housed various commercial businesses, including a pharmacy, bank, and lunch bar. However, these establishments were removed during the hall’s renovation in the late 1990s, which focused on restoring the interior and gothic arches that had been altered in the mid-20th century.
The Perth Mint
The Perth Mint, owned by the Government of Western Australia, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in precious metals and the history of gold. Established in 1899, it is Australia’s official bullion mint and the oldest operating mint in the country. The mint is responsible for minting and marketing Australia’s legal tender coins, including gold, silver, and platinum options.
One of the highlights of the Perth Mint is witnessing a traditional gold pour in the original 1899 melting house. You can watch as pure gold is transformed into solid bars, an awe-inspiring sight. The mint also houses the largest collection of gold nuggets in the Southern Hemisphere, showcasing the natural beauty of this precious metal.
Guided talks are available hourly, providing captivating insights into the discovery of gold in Western Australia and the mint’s fascinating history. The tours include a short film that takes you on a mesmerizing journey of gold discovery. You can even find out your weight’s worth in gold, a unique experience offered at the mint.
The mint’s world-class exhibition halls bring the story of Western Australian gold and the Perth Mint to life. You’ll witness the incredible one-tonne gold coin, holding a Guinness World Record as the largest and most valuable gold coin ever created. The exhibition also features stunning gold nuggets, coin displays, and the opportunity to hold a large gold bullion bar.
During your visit, you can design your own medallion and explore the value of your weight in gold. The mint also offers a range of unique Western Australian treasures for purchase, including exquisite Argyle pink diamonds and South Sea pearls.
The Perth Mint’s significance extends beyond its historical charm. It remains a vital player in the gold industry, providing refining services and manufacturing a wide range of precious metal coins for investors and collectors. With its rich history, captivating exhibits, and unique experiences, a visit to the Perth Mint is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of gold.
The Old Mill in South Perth
The Old Mill, also known as Shenton’s Mill, is a restored tower mill in South Perth, Western Australia. Originally built in the 1830s, it is now a well-known historic landmark and tourist attraction.
The windmill was commissioned by William Kernot Shenton and operated as the colony’s first wind-powered industry, producing up to 680 kilograms of flour per day. However, due to financial difficulties and an unfavorable location, it ceased operation in 1859.
The site went through various uses, including a dance hall and hotel, before being preserved in 1957 during the construction of the Narrows Bridge. The City of South Perth took ownership, repaired and upgraded the mill, and it was listed on the National Trust register in 1992.
Recognized for its architectural and historical significance, the Old Mill stands as a testament to the region’s past and is an important museum site.
The Old Perth Fire Station
The Old Perth Fire Station, located at 25 Murray Street in Perth, holds a significant place in the city’s history. Built in 1901, it served as the first purpose-built fire station in the region, operating until 1979.
Today, the building houses the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) Education and Heritage Centre, where visitors can explore a museum showcasing historic documents and vintage vehicles from the early days of the emergency services.
Designed by Michael Cavanagh with Romanesque Revival influences, the two-storey limestone structure features a captivating facade adorned with arches, turrets, and recessed colonnades.
Following its restoration in the 1980s, the building reopened as the Fire Safety Education Centre and Museum. Subsequent refurbishments in 2006 focused on enhancing accessibility and included the addition of displays dedicated to the history of Western Australian fire services and educating visitors about natural hazards and disasters.
Recognized for its architectural significance, the Old Perth Fire Station has received several prestigious designations. It was entered into the Register of the National Estate, classified by the National Trust (WA), included in the City of Perth’s Municipal Inventory, and permanently listed on the Western Australian Heritage Register.
With its unique features and educational exhibits, the Old Perth Fire Station stands as a cherished landmark that commemorates the past while providing insights into the vital work of emergency services.
His Majesty’s Theatre
His Majesty’s Theatre, an Edwardian Baroque masterpiece, holds a prominent place in Perth’s cultural landscape. Constructed between 1902 and 1904, the theatre stands proudly on the corner of Hay Street and King Street in the heart of Perth’s central business district.
As the largest theatre in Australia during its opening, His Majesty’s Theatre boasted a seating capacity of over 2,500 people, and it is believed to be the first reinforced concrete building in Perth. Throughout its history, the theatre has played host to a wide array of performances, including musicals, ballet, opera, Shakespearean plays, and more.
Notable renovations were undertaken in the late 1970s when the State Government acquired the building, resulting in an ornamental restoration and modernization of the facilities. Today, it serves as the esteemed home for the West Australian Ballet and West Australian Opera companies.
The historical and cultural significance of His Majesty’s Theatre has earned it prestigious designations, including inclusion on the State Register of Heritage Places and the Register of the National Estate. It holds the distinction of being named a “State Heritage Icon” and is recognized as the last remaining working Edwardian theatre in Australia.
The grandeur of the theatre is exemplified by its architectural features. The four-storey structure encompasses a magnificent auditorium with a proscenium arch, a spacious stage, and a horseshoe-shaped seating arrangement that brings the audience closer to the performers. The theatre’s exterior, once adorned with verandah balconies, underwent changes in 1947-48 to address safety concerns, resulting in a noticeable contrast between the upper facade ornamentation and the lower three storeys.
Over the years, His Majesty’s Theatre has graced its stage with numerous iconic performers, including ballet dancer Edouard Borovansky, actress Claudette Colbert, comedian Peter Cook, ballerina Dame Margot Fonteyn, coloratura soprano Amelita Galli-Curci, actress Judy Garland, actor Sir John Gielgud, pianist and composer Percy Grainger, actor Sir Rex Harrison, actor and dancer Sir Robert Helpmann, actress Katharine Hepburn, comedian Barry Humphries, entertainer Harry Lauder, actress Vivien Leigh, soprano Dame Nellie Melba, singer Gladys Moncrieff, comedian Dudley Moore, ballerina Anna Pavlova, actor Geoffrey Rush, actress Dame Maggie Smith, actress Dame Sybil Thorndike, actor Emlyn Williams, and many others.
With its rich history, architectural splendor, and a legacy of captivating performances, His Majesty’s Theatre remains a cherished gem in Perth’s cultural tapestry.
The Old Court House
The Old Court House in Perth, holds a significant place in the city’s history as the first court building constructed in the area. Situated between Stirling Gardens and Supreme Court Gardens, the single-storey cream rendered building with a wooden shingle roof stands as the city’s oldest surviving public structure. Completed in 1836, it exemplifies the classical Greek revival style of the 19th century, designed by Henry Reveley, a colonial civil engineer.
Initially serving as a courthouse, the building also doubled as a place of worship until St George’s Church was built in 1842. It played a pivotal role in the cultural life of the Swan River Colony, serving as a schoolroom and hosting public meetings.
From 1905 to 1965, the Old Court House housed the Arbitration Court, undergoing renovations in 1921 and 1966. Subsequently, it became the official premises of the Law Society of Western Australia, featuring the Law Museum since 1974. The building underwent refurbishment in 1985 and now houses the Francis Burt Legal Education Centre.
The Georgian-style structure, made of stone rubble with a stucco finish, features a hipped roof and an added entry portico supported by Doric pillars. The Old Court House Law Museum, operated by the Law Society of Western Australia, currently resides in the building, showcasing the history of law, legal issues, and the legal profession in Western Australia.
Recognized for its historical and architectural significance, the Old Court House is listed on the Register of the National Estate and holds classification by the National Trust of Australia (WA). It was permanently registered on the state heritage register in February 2003. Visitors can also admire the restored original wooden coat of arms, crafted by Lewis Hasluck, on display in the museum.
The Cloisters
Nestled at 200 St Georges Terrace, where it meets Mill Street in the heart of Perth, Western Australia, stands The Cloisters—a two-storey dark brick building with a history as rich as the city itself. This architectural gem, dating back to 1858, is one of the few remaining colonial structures from the mid-nineteenth century in central Perth.
Designed by Richard Roach Jewell for Bishop Mathew Blagden Hale, The Cloisters was originally established as the “Perth Church of England Collegiate School,” colloquially known as “Bishop Hale’s School.”
As the first secondary school in the Swan River Colony, it holds a special place in the history of education in Western Australia.
The building’s architectural style draws inspiration from iconic English structures like St. James’s Palace, Eton College, and Fulham Palace, reflecting the ties to the English monarchy and the moral and temporal authority of the Church.
Over the years, The Cloisters underwent various transformations, serving as a school for both boys and girls, a clergy college, and a hostel for the University of Western Australia. It narrowly escaped demolition in the late 1960s, leading to its restoration and adaptation into a commercial space in 1971.
Today, The Cloisters, classified by the National Trust and on the state heritage register, stands as a testament to Perth’s historical charm within the bustling Cloisters Square.
The Old Perth Boys School
The Old Perth Boys School, standing proudly at 139 St Georges Terrace in Perth, holds the distinction of being the earliest government school building in the state. Designed by William Ayshford Sanford in 1852, this single-story limestone structure stands as a significant testament to colonial architecture from the mid-nineteenth century.
A masterpiece of early Gothic Revival architecture, the building features a steeply pitched roof, originally shingled, and slender vertical windows that lend it the appearance of a church.
Over the years, two wings were added to the structure, one in 1865 and another in 1868, enhancing its functionality and charm. Although the bell tower and spire have been removed, the building retains its historical aura.
The Perth Boys School, which was established in 1847, initially operated from various makeshift locations, including the Old Court House. The current site, once a water-powered flour mill, became the permanent home for the school. Construction commenced in 1853, and by September 1854, the building stood complete.
Designed by Sanford, an enthusiast of ecclesiastical architecture, the school exudes a Gothic Revival style reminiscent of a church. Despite initial challenges, including higher construction costs due to boggy ground, the school flourished for decades. In 1900, it became part of the Perth Technical College.
Today, owned by the National Trust of Western Australia, the Old Perth Boys School has been repurposed as a bustling cafe and university outpost for Curtin University, showcasing the adaptive reuse of this historic gem.
Classified by the National Trust and listed on the State Register of Heritage Places, this building stands as a living testament to Western Australia’s educational heritage and architectural legacy.
The Archbishop’s Palace
The Archbishop’s Palace, nestled in the heart of Perth, Western Australia, stands as a testament to history and architectural brilliance. This heritage-listed building has served as the residence for bishops and archbishops of Perth since its inception in 1855.
Beyond its cultural significance to the Roman Catholic community, the palace is a prime example of the Federation Academic Classical style, masterfully designed by architect Michael Cavanagh. It stands as an iconic landmark within the Victoria Square precinct.
The story of the Archbishop’s Palace begins in the 1840s when Perth’s first bishop, Father Brady, acquired the land around Victoria Square to accommodate the growing Roman Catholic population.
Under the leadership of Father Joseph Serra, construction of the Episcopal palace commenced in late 1855, with 33 brothers from the Diocese of Perth contributing to its creation.
Over the years, the palace underwent renovations, with notable alterations in 1911 by Archbishop Clune and further additions in 1936 to accommodate the expanding administrative functions of the Roman Catholic Church.
By 2009, the palace had fallen into disrepair, but meticulous restoration efforts breathed new life into this historic gem. The project, designed by Philip Griffiths Architects and constructed by Colgan Industries, received numerous awards, including the City of Perth Heritage Award and the MBA Best Historic Restoration and Renovation.
Today, the Archbishop’s Palace proudly graces Victoria Square, serving as a living testament to the enduring heritage of Perth and the architectural prowess of its era.
The Barracks Arch
The Barracks Arch, situated at the western end of St Georges Terrace in Perth, Western Australia, is a captivating piece of history and architecture. Designed by Richard Roach Jewell, this architectural marvel was constructed between 1863 and 1866 to serve as accommodation for the Enrolled Pensioner Force.
These pensioners were originally guards on convict ships who received land grants in exchange for part-time guard duties.
Jewell’s design drew inspiration from Tudor style, giving the building the appearance of a medieval castle. Although constructed with brick rather than stone for cost-efficiency, it exudes charm with horizontal lines of paler bricks beneath the windows and a roof made of timber shingles.
A significant fire in 1887 damaged parts of the building, but it was meticulously restored afterward. In the early 1900s, the Barracks transformed into offices for the Public Works Department, with notable figures like C. Y. O’Connor occupying its spaces.
In 1966, there was a threat of demolition to make way for the Mitchell Freeway. However, public sentiment and opinion polls rallied to save this historic site. Premier Sir David Brand ultimately decided against demolition, and the Barracks Arch stands proudly today, blocking the view down St Georges Terrace from Parliament House and symbolizing the power of public determination in preserving heritage.
The Treasury Buildings
The Treasury Buildings, also known as the Old Treasury Buildings, hold a special place in the heart of Perth, Western Australia, within the Cathedral Square complex. These historic structures, originally known as the Government Buildings or Government Offices in the 1890s, have witnessed the evolution of the city and its governance.
The site’s historical significance is underscored by its proximity to the very spot where Perth was founded in 1829, at the northwest corner of the complex. For over a century, the Treasury Buildings housed various government departments and offices, including the Premier of Western Australia in the 1920s.
In the early 21st century, the buildings underwent a significant redevelopment, becoming an integral part of the revitalized Cathedral Square complex and earning the name State Buildings. This transformation not only preserved their rich heritage but also breathed new life into these iconic structures.
Today, the State Buildings continue to be a testament to Perth’s history, offering a blend of historical significance and modern functionality for both residents and visitors to enjoy.
The Royal Hotel
The Royal Hotel in Perth, stands as a remarkable testament to the city’s enduring history. Originally constructed in 1882, this iconic hotel building has weathered over a century of change and development.
Situated at the intersection of Wellington, William, Murray, and Queen Streets, it plays a central role in the bustling Raine Square precinct and offers direct tunnel access to the Perth Underground train station.
Once known as Schruth’s Royal Hotel in 1894, the Royal Hotel underwent a significant facelift in 1906, enhancing its grand facade. In 1925, it became a part of the Swan Brewery’s legacy, further solidifying its place in Perth’s heritage.
Despite the ever-evolving cityscape around it, the hotel building has stood the test of time. In 2019, following extensive renovations, The Royal reopened its doors as a modern pub, paying homage to its historic roots.
The ground floor’s Saloon Bar, harking back to its original name from 1894, offers indoor and outdoor seating, providing a contemporary twist on traditional pub fare.
Upstairs, the space has been thoughtfully divided into various sections, each with its unique concept, including two bars, function areas, private dining, and even a karaoke room. The Royal Hotel remains a beloved landmark, combining historical charm with modern flair.
The Court Hotel
The Court Hotel, also known as ‘The Court,’ is a vibrant music venue and bar nestled in the heart of Perth, Western Australia. Steeped in history, this iconic establishment has been a bustling hotel since its construction in 1888, making it a cherished part of Perth’s cultural heritage.
Situated at the corner of Beaufort Street and James Street, The Court Hotel enjoys a prime location, adjacent to the James St Mall within the Perth Cultural Centre. Its neighbor is Curtin House, the former headquarters of the WA Police detective unit, adding to its historical significance.
The venue boasts an expansive astroturf outdoor courtyard, complete with a stage area, where live music and entertainment come to life under the stars. The exterior of The Court Hotel is a canvas of vibrant street art, creating a visually striking and inviting atmosphere.
Architecturally, the venue features a fusion of styles, from Victorian Regency to Federation Free Classical, and internally, the Inter-War Art Deco style. Its name is a nod to its proximity to a former Magistrates court across the road in the Perth cultural precinct.
Throughout its long history, The Court Hotel has undergone several renovations in 1938, 2007, 2012, and 2017, ensuring it remains a dynamic and beloved destination.
The Theatre Royal and Metropole Hotel
The Theatre Royal and Metropole Hotel, situated at 637–645 Hay Street in Perth, is not just a historic landmark but also a testament to the city’s cultural evolution. This building was the brainchild of local businessman Thomas Molloy, who recognized the need for cultural venues in a growing Perth during the 1890s.
Thomas Molloy’s vision led to the construction of the Hotel Metropole in 1894, providing luxurious accommodation for Perth’s residents and visitors. In February 1895, he unveiled plans for the Theatre Royal, a 1,000-seat theatre adjacent to the hotel, which was officially opened on 19 April 1897.
It quickly became the city’s most popular picture theatre, even hosting the first demonstration of Continental Wondergraph Company’s new cinema technology in 1909.
Over the years, the Theatre Royal underwent renovations, transitioning from live performances to exclusive cinematic shows. The cinema further modernized in 1965, becoming a Hoyts venue with the installation of a curved screen and a state-of-the-art sound system.
The Metropole Hotel, designed by architect Henry Stirling Trigg, boasted American Romanesque architecture, a three-story structure, and various amenities, including saloon bars, dining rooms, and even a rooftop used for concerts.
John Stuart Jackson, the architect for the Theatre Royal, ensured the theatre complemented the hotel’s facade. With its proscenium stage, multiple seating areas, and a stunning crystal chandelier, the theatre was a grand addition to Perth’s cultural scene.
Although the Theatre Royal closed in 1977, and the ground floor was transformed into shops, these historic buildings have been preserved as valuable heritage sites. Their significance was officially recognized when they were classified by the National Trust of Australia and added to the Register of the National Estate.
The Palace Hotel
The Palace Hotel, nestled in the heart of Perth’s central business district, is an iconic three-story heritage-listed building that has played a significant role in Western Australia’s history. Built in 1897 during the height of the region’s gold rush era, it originally operated as a luxurious hotel, quickly gaining acclaim as one of the most elegant establishments in Australasia.
Architects Porter and Thomas designed the Palace Hotel in the “Federation Free Classical” architectural style, crafting a stunning brick and iron structure. The building’s opulence was evident from the moment it opened its doors on 18 March 1897, drawing praise for its beauty and elegance, which rivalled that of Melbourne and Sydney.
Over the years, the Palace Hotel transitioned from a hotel to banking chambers and offices in the 1980s, currently housing the Perth headquarters of Woods Bagot, Adapptor, and Hatchd. Despite these changes, the Palace Hotel has retained its status as a historical landmark.
Preservation efforts, led by the Palace Guards lobby group and supported by the National Trust of Western Australia, ensured that the building’s heritage value was upheld. It was entered into the National Trust’s register in 1973 and later designated a permanent entry in 1980, recognizing its significance during the gold rush era.
Today, the Palace Hotel remains a prominent feature of the city’s landscape, serving as a testament to Western Australia’s prosperous past and its enduring cultural and architectural legacy.
The Albany Bell Castle
The Albany Bell Castle, located in Mount Lawley, Perth, is a heritage-listed building with a rich history. Built in 1914, it served as the headquarters of Albany Bell Ltd, a catering company that supplied cakes and confectionery to tearooms in Perth, Kalgoorlie, and Boulder.
Situated on 19 acres of land, just two miles from Perth, the site featured natural springs that provided 100,000 gallons of fresh water daily. Inspired by the Cadbury factory in Bournville, UK, Peter Albany Bell, the company’s founder, aimed to create an employee-friendly workplace.
Designed by architect Alexander Cameron, the factory combined elements from San Francisco’s Ghirardelli Chocolate factory and Australian Federation style. It was built in two stages, featuring a single-story north wing, a two-story south wing, and a central section with a basement for chocolate dipping, completed in 1919.
Albany Bell Ltd was ahead of its time in labor practices, offering two weeks of paid annual leave to its 400 employees. The company also provided travel benefits, fostering employee well-being. In 1928, Bell sold the company due to labor disputes, rising costs, and competition.
Over the years, the factory served various purposes, including as a chicken hatchery and a reserve building during World War II. It later housed government offices and a school for the blind.
Recognized for its historical significance, the Albany Bell Castle was assessed by the Heritage Council in 1992. It was eventually transformed into apartments while preserving its original structure and gardens. Today, it stands as a symbol of Western Australia’s heritage and progressive labor practices.
The General Post Office
The General Post Office, a historic landmark in Perth, stands proudly in the city’s central business district. Completed in 1923, its Beaux-Arts style architecture, characterized by an imposing stone facade, graces the heart of Forrest Place.
Constructed with a concrete-encased steel frame and adorned with local materials, this historic gem continues to captivate with its architectural grandeur and rich history.
This grand building, despite enduring construction challenges due to World War I material shortages, emerged as the largest in Perth upon its inauguration.
For decades, it faithfully served as Perth’s central post office until Australia Post relocated in July 2016. In its place, a franchise of the renowned clothing retailer H&M opened its doors in March 2017.
Architecturally, the General Post Office exemplifies High Edwardian Classical design, often described as a “free treatment of the Greek Renaissance.” Its neo-classical facade, adorned with Donnybrook stone and large paired Ionic columns, towers over an arcade lined with Mahogany Creek Granite facing.
The interior, equally opulent, showcases jarrah features throughout. Notably, the herringbone-pattern flooring comprises around 600,000 jarrah blocks.
The building’s basement housed vaults and managed bulk parcels, while the upper floors accommodated various government departments, including the Taxation Department and offices for Federal Members of Parliament. The General Post Office’s foundation rests on 1,525 piles, and the structure boasts numerous lifts for accessibility.
