Participants warmly welcomed by MP Mathew Hilakari at Victoria’s Parliament House. Photo: Supplied
Melbourne, March 17: A delegation from the Bangladeshi community visited Victoria’s historic Parliament House today as part of a guided educational tour, aimed at gaining firsthand experience of Australia’s democratic system and legislative processes. The visit provided participants with a deeper understanding of one of the country’s most important institutions, its functions, traditions, and historical significance.
The group was warmly received by Mathew Hilakari, MP for Point Cook and Labor candidate in the upcoming Victorian State Election. Under his guidance, the delegation toured key sections of the parliament and learned extensively about Australia’s parliamentary history.
The tour began in the grand hall named after Queen Victoria, where participants took photographs in front of her statue and admired portraits of former Premiers displayed along the walls. During this time, Mr Hilakari spoke about the history and evolution of the Parliament, a discussion that generated notable interest and curiosity among younger participants.
The delegation was then taken to the Legislative Chambers, where laws are debated and passed. Participants gained practical insights into parliamentary proceedings and had the unique opportunity to sit inside the chamber during a live session, listening to Members of Parliament deliver their speeches.
A highlight of the visit was learning about the long-standing mystery of the Parliament’s “stolen mace,” that continues to intrigue and spark discussion. Participants also experienced the Westminster-style parliamentary system by sitting in MPs’ chairs, offering them a hands-on understanding of how the chamber operates.
“Having the opportunity to learn so extensively about the past, present, and future of Parliament is truly exciting,” said data analyst Zeenatur Reza Khan. “It’s my first visit, and I even brought my young son with me, because it’s very important for our next generation to understand how this parliamentary system works.”
The delegation later explored the historic Parliamentary Library, which played a crucial role in accommodating the Federal Parliament in the building from 1901 to 1927. At the end of the tour, Mr Hilakari presented each participant with a commemorative photo frame.
Sharing his experience, Jahangir Hossain, President of Progoti business association, Rome, Italy and a resident of Rome who joined the tour with his family, said, “Visiting the Victorian Parliament has been an unforgettable experience for me. It offered a valuable opportunity to learn about Australia’s parliamentary history and its long-standing commitment to democracy.”
PhD researcher Mita Chowdhury played a key role in ensuring the event was organised and executed smoothly and successfully. This initiative is being seen as an important step in raising awareness among members of the Bangladeshi community about Australia’s democratic processes and encouraging greater civic participation.
