Investigation launched into Old Parliament House fire

ACT Policing will launch an investigation into the cause of a fire which caused extensive damage to the front facade of Old Parliament House today (Thursday, 30 December).

Protestors have been at the front of Old Parliament House for over a week and this morning began a traditional smoking ceremony.

The fire travelled to the front facade of the building and the building was evacuated before ACT Fire and Rescue extinguished the blaze.

Although there were no injuries that resulted from the blaze there was extensive water damage to the interior of Old Parliament House.

Old Parliament House will remain closed while the investigation is undertaken.

While the rights of people to peacefully protest are always acknowledged by ACT Policing, criminal actions are not tolerated and the people responsible will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

Police Media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au