Trades Hall

Located in the heart of Broken Hill, the Trades Hall is a stunning example of Victorian-era architecture and holds significant historical value for the city. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Broken Hill, and served as the headquarters for the fight for workers’ rights. The unions fought tirelessly to improve the working conditions in the mines, eventually achieving their first major victory in 1920 by securing a 35-hour workweek for underground workers, an Australian-first.

The Trades Hall was completed in 1905 and was the first building in Australia to be owned by unions. Inside its stone walls, visitors can explore collections dedicated to the city’s militant past, including union banners and picket maps from the 1909 lockout. The main hall boasts a remarkable ceiling painted in a geometric pattern, adding to the grandeur of this historic building.