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Parramatta Town Hall
Parramatta Town Hall
Bridging Parramatta’s past and present through architecture, culture and public life
About the building
Located on the lands of the Barramada people of the Dharug Nation, Parramatta Town Hall has played a central role in the city’s public, cultural and democratic life for more than 140 years. In 1870, Mayor John Good recognised the need for a dedicated town hall in Parramatta, envisioning a central building for entertainment, concerts and meetings.
Sydney architectural firm Mansfield Brothers – a prominent contributor to the architectural development of NSW during the 19th century – designed the building in the Victorian Free Classical style, characterised by its formal symmetrical facade, ornamental detailing, stuccoed brickwork and deeply moulded sash windows. Construction was completed by Herbert Coates of Parramatta in 1883, revealing generous volumes, grand ceilings and finely detailed interiors that lend the building a strong sense of civic presence and gravitas.
Over time, a series of carefully managed interventions has focused on conservation, restoration and adaptive reuse. The introduction of a striking glass atrium and new connections to PHIVE and Parramatta Square support contemporary use, while respecting the integrity and heritage significance of the original fabric. Following these works, completed in 2023, Parramatta Town Hall has emerged as a modern venue for public, corporate and private events, including conferences, weddings and receptions, arts and cultural performances, theatrical productions, exhibitions and community celebrations.
Parramatta Town Hall has served as a focal point for council proceedings, public meetings, performances, celebrations and community events since it opened. Today, it offers a range of inspiring heritage and contemporary internal spaces, including the Great Hall, the Ngurra Gunya Room and the Charles Byrnes Room, which was formerly the council chambers.
Talks, tours and more
Built
1883
Architect
Mansfield Brothers
City of Parramatta in collaboration with Manuelle Gautrand Architecture, Lacoste+Stevenson, DesignInc and TKD Architects
Acknowledgements
The participation of Parramatta Town Hall is made possible by the City of Parramatta
Find out more about this building here
Parramatta Town Hall
182 Church Street, Parramatta
Entry details
Attendees will have access to the Great Hall, Ngurra Gunya Room, Charles Byrnes Room and the Inspector of Nuisances Room, which are not normally open to the public
10am–4pm
3.45pm
Talks, tours and more
Need to know
Accessible featuresThere is ramp or level (step-free) entry, and lift access to all public levels. Assistance animals are welcome. There is an assistive listening/hearing loop, and an Auslan interpreter is available on request
Toilets availableAccessible toilets, Baby-changing facilities/parents room
Photography allowed
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