High Court of Australia

The High Court of Australia decides important questions of law for the nation.

See the Court in action

The High Court of Australia is the highest court in the Australian judicial system, and is situated in the National Triangle at Parkes Place, beside Lake Burley Griffin.

During sitting weeks Students may view barristers presenting their arguments before the Justices as they watch a case unfold.

Sitting dates are posted at hcourt.gov.au/registry/court-calendars

Please note:

• Sitting dates are planned the year prior, before cases are scheduled for hearing.
• This means that on a given sitting day,there may not be a hearing

Building tours

Tours of the building bring to life the powerful history and contemporary function of the High Court in upholding Australia’s democracy.

Students will gain an understanding of why our democracy relies on the separation of powers and what is meant by the ‘rule of law’.

Tours take Students into courtrooms where the High Court interprets and applies Australian law and where cases of national significance are heard, including challenges to the constitutional validity of laws.

In the Australian Constitutional Centre, students discover the importance and relevance of the Australian Constitution.

The Centre, created in collaboration with the Constitutional Education Fund of Australia, celebrates the Constitution as the ‘heartbeat of our country’, uniting us all, underpinning justice, and building our nation.

All groups enter the Court via the ceremonial ramp from King Edward Terrace.

Parking is at the National Portrait Gallery set down area off King Edward Terrace.

Students are advised to leave bags, water bottles and personal items on coaches, to assist efficient movement through the Court’s security screening.

Students may take photographs inside the building, except in sitting courtrooms

To book a 60-minute tour go to bookcanberraexcursions.com.au.

Online Resources 

Civics and citizenship resources available for primary and secondary students.     

High Court Education Resources >