Government House is the official residence and principal workplace of Victoria’s governor, set in Kings Domain beside the Royal Botanic Gardens. Its Italianate design draws on Queen Victoria’s Osborne House, and the mansion is known for its scale and ornate interiors. Public access is limited, so check for an Open Day or book a National Trust tour, held twice weekly. Tours include rooms such as the ballroom and state dining room, as well as Hopetoun stables. On special public days, you can also explore the gardens and grounds.
The governor’s residence
Government House is the official residence and principal workplace of Victoria’s governor. It stands in Kings Domain, beside the Royal Botanic Gardens, on land set aside by Victoria’s first governor, Charles La Trobe, in 1841. The house also served as the residence of Australia’s governor-general from 1901 to 1930.
Built during Victoria’s gold-rush era, the mansion is among Australia’s largest residential buildings. Its Italianate design was modelled on Queen Victoria’s Osborne House on the Isle of Wight. The scale and decorative detail reflect the confidence and wealth of nineteenth-century Melbourne.
Rooms and tours
A National Trust tour gives access to historic rooms inside the house. The route includes the ballroom, state dining room, state drawing room and billiard room, along with the nineteenth-century kitchen and Hopetoun stables. Tours are held twice weekly and also visit nearby La Trobe’s Cottage.
Public access is limited, so check the tour schedule or look for an announced Open Day before setting out. Access during an Open Day may be restricted to the ground floor, depending on the event.
The grounds and Kings Domain
The grounds are part of Kings Domain, a garden area with mature trees and flower beds. The wider precinct also contains the Myer Music Bowl and the Shrine of Remembrance, as well as lawns, plaques and statues. A visit during a public event can include time outdoors as well as access to the house.
Australia Day events have included military bands, gun salutes and an air show, alongside family activities. Event programmes differ, so check what is planned for the date you intend to visit.
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Can the public visit Government House?
Public access is limited. Look for an announced Open Day or book a National Trust tour, held twice weekly.
What can you see on a National Trust tour?
The tour includes the ballroom, state dining room, state drawing room, billiard room, nineteenth-century kitchen and Hopetoun stables. It also visits nearby La Trobe’s Cottage.
Where is Government House in Melbourne?
It is in Kings Domain beside the Royal Botanic Gardens.
What happens at Government House on Australia Day?
Past events have included military bands, gun salutes, an air show and family activities. Check the event programme for details.
