When Robert Menzies was first induced to switch to Federal politics in 1934, he hesitated because he had significant reservations about spending a large amount of time in the national capital. He observed that ‘Canberra is not attractive, either personally or professionally, for obvious reasons, but I feel that the Commonwealth Parliament must still attract the services of men who are interested in public affairs if the Federal system is to continue effectively’. However, over years spent in the Lodge with his family, Menzies grew to appreciate the place, and resolved to make it a truly worthwhile monument to the nation. Through the National Capital Development Commission, the Menzies Government would oversee the construction of many of Canberra’s most enduring landmarks, from the National Library of Australia to Lake Burley Griffin itself.

Robert Menzies Institute CEO Georgina Downer talks to Ted Ling, an expert on the development of Canberra.