Vicki Dunne MLA

Speaker for the Legislative Assembly for the ACT

Media Release

17 September 2015

SPECIAL EVENT: ASSEMBLY OPEN DAY 2015

On Sunday 20 September, the Legislative Assembly will celebrate Spring by opening its doors and giving members of the community an opportunity to come behind the scenes at their Assembly building.

Events will kick off at 10:00am and include tours of the building and a free BBQ hosted by MLAs.

One of the main events of the day will be a debate, presided over by the Honourable Justice Richard Refshauge, on the significance of the Magna Carta, featuring students from years 10-12 from Canberra schools. A hand-crafted replica of the Magna Carta will also be on display.

“Sunday’s open day is a great opportunity for people to get involved. There will be tours of the building and visitors are invited to watch the Great Magna Carta Debate from the public gallery. The Assembly is a young modern democratic parliament and public participation is key to ensuring its continuing relevance to the ACT community,” Assembly Speaker, Vicki Dunne said.

“Other events include choral performances by the Canberra Children’s Choir and adult choir Latin Lovers. There will also be tours of Assembly artworks, talks by local artists, and a display of creative endeavours by Assembly members and staff.”

The first 100 visitors (one per person/family) will receive the gift of a Correa “Canberra Bells” plant.

The ACT Legislative Assembly is unique in Australia. Formed in 1989, it has 17 MLAs, one chamber, and is responsible for both local and territory functions. Following the October 2016 election, the Assembly will have 25 members. This will be the last opportunity for an open day before the builders move in to remodel the building to accommodate the expanded membership.