Following the auction last week of Australia’s Old Parliament House, the historic building is to become a shopping mall.

Westfield Group, the owners of various shopping malls and retail space across the world were the successful bidders at the auction, purchasing the property for AUD 127 million dollars.

A representative from Westfield Group, Mr Montgomery Bond said, “We are extremely happy with our purchase. The building is perfect for transformation into a retail hub.  We have a feeling that the residents of Canberra will be overjoyed.”

Mr Montgomery Bond outside the historic building

When asked about the extent to which the building will be changed, Mr Bond stated that, “There are no plans to completely change the exterior.  We intend on keeping any changes as tasteful as possible.  Apart from some neon signage, you can expect it to be the same Old Parliament House that we have all grown up with.”

A fifteen-story car park is to be erected directly behind the historic building.

The government issued a statement shortly after the winning bidder was announced, pointing out to the many critics that “Old Parliament House was a relic of the past and we are pleased that it will have a new lease of life.”

Canberra Airport Group, the unsuccessful bidder were said to be “disappointed”, as they intended on using the building as “Brand Depot House” to complement the success of their highly popular Brand Depot.