MP calls for charges to be laid over Old Parliament House fire

A fire was lit as part of a traditional smoking ceremony by demonstrators, but it quickly spread to consume the entrance of the building.

Protesters were seen jeering and clapping as the building burned.

Mr Littleproud told Today it was a “sad day for our democracy”.

“No matter your race, no matter your religion, no matter your beliefs – no one has the right to vandalise a symbol of our democracy,” he said.

“I get people have to have a cause these days, they have to be angry, but vandalism is not the way to do it.

“I think we’re better than that as a nation.”

Former Nine News presenter John Mangos used to work as a correspondent in Old Parliament House, and was “speechless” to see entrance burning.

“It’s an ornament to Australia. It’s an ornament to Australian architecture,” he said.

“That very spot is where Gough Whitlam famously said ‘May God save the Queen because nothing will save the governor-general’.”

Not everyone was as sad to see the building burn.

The building was quickly evacuated and the fire extinguished by ACT Fire and Rescue.

Nobody was hurt during the fire, but the interior of the building sustained extensive water damage.

Police are seeking to review CCTV footage from inside the building at the time the fire was lit.

So far, no arrests have been made and no charges have been laid.

Old Parliament House will remain closed during the investigation.