The original Marrickville Post Office building will be placed on the Commonwealth Heritage List in recognition of its significant heritage value.
Member for Grayndler, Anthony Albanese, welcomed the announcement saying it would mean increased protection for the building which is today home to the Marrickville Post Cafe.
“The original Marrickville Post Office was designed by architect James Barnett and when it opened in 1891, it combined a post office, telegraph office and residence in the one building,” Mr Albanese said.
“It was constructed by Messrs Graham & Mercer for 2,197 pounds.
“Putting aside its physical grandeur, the building represents the establishment of the precinct as the main business district of Marrickville following the construction of the tramline along Marrickville Road in 1881.
“At the time, the Marrickville Post Office would have been the most prominent and substantial building in town and the site of important meetings.
“Today, the building is home to the Marrickville Post Cafe and it continues to be a lively meeting place for our local community while retaining much of its original character including the wooden floors, high ceilings and gorgeous arched windows.
“I am delighted that Marrickville Post Office is now listed on the Commonwealth Heritage List.
“This announcement is significant because it provides heritage protection into the future for this significant community icon.”
In total, 15 post offices from around Australia have been added to the Commonwealth Heritage List.
Post offices throughout Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia have been placed on the Commonwealth Heritage List.