They had us at Prime Minister mugs—the Parliament Shop has officially reopened

Posted on 15 September, 2023

The Parliament Shop has officially been refreshed and revitalised after 27 years to bring a new collection of iconic souvenirs to Canberra and we’ll take one of everything thanks.

Now providing a contemporary and light-filled environment befitting the Australian Parliament in 2023—which is perfect for exploring the stunning new merch range in person—the Shop hasn’t just had a physical facelift.

The ethos of the Parliament Shop has also been revamped to reflect a focus on Australian-designed and made products, and they had us at Prime Minister mugs.

Collaborating with makers and designers from all around the country to create and source unique Australian products that celebrate democracy, the institution of parliament, and the architecture of Parliament House, Department of Parliamentary Services President Sue Lines says one of the most important aspects of the Shop’s vision is to provide access to sustainable and ethical products.

“This ethos also extends to supporting First Nations artists to achieve fair commercial opportunities for their art. That means when you buy Indigenous artwork or products, you can be sure that the product is authentic, and that the artist will receive a direct benefit from the sale.”

With the range of new products in the Shop coming from suppliers in every state and territory in Australia, what makes the refresh even more exciting is many of the products have a unique connection to Parliament House itself.

“In fact, many of the unique products stocked in the Shop have a direct connection to this building and this special site – the heart of the nation’s capital,” says Speaker Milton Dick.

“It is so important that we have the best products our country has to offer, from our talented Australian-made businesses”.

The highlights? We can’t go past the colourful ‘Chamber Socks’ designed by Canberra artist Estelle Briedis, or the History Pen, made in Canberra by Koitoya from jarrah originally used in a wool store in Western Australia and later in a pergola in the Prime Minister’s courtyard at Australian Parliament House.

There’s also honey soap made by Honey and Glow in Googong using honey harvested from the parliament hives; LEGO chamber puzzles made by QPuzzles on the Gold Coast; and custom souvenir keyrings designed by Swell in Canberra and made in Frankston by Cash’s Awards who make AFL premiership medallions and the Brownlow Medal.

With plenty of new souvenirs, books, and gifting items now available, make sure to pop into the store to check them out (and buy something) for yourself.

Parlimint anyone?

Images supplied.