Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2021C01223:front:0:p41
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2021C01223
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 125065–128046

emphasis on strength and stability towards a more contemporary and international style (Criterion A.4).

Through its prestigious design and function as Australia's central bank, the building makes an important contribution to the streetscape and character of Martin Place, Macquarie Street and Phillip Street (Criterion E.1).

The two foyer art works are of historical and aesthetic significance. The artworks by Bim Hilder and Margel Hinder are significant examples of Australian modernist sculpture of this period by two significant artists, who were selected as the winners of design competitions by the Reserve Bank. The furnishings by Fred Ward are of historical and aesthetic significance. Designed for the building by Ward, who was one of the leaders in modern Australian industrial design at this time, the furnishings are of a simple and functional design which are now considered to be pieces of art in themselves (Criteria A.4, F. 1 & H.1).

The variety of moveable heritage items located throughout the building including furniture, china, flat wear, silverware, napery and accessories, pottery, tapestry and artworks are significant having been specifically designed or purchased for the building as well as being of artistic merit in their own right (Criterion F.1).

When constructed elements of the mechanical and electrical services within the building were considered advanced and innovative, and although many elements have been removed or substantially altered, their incorporation in the building is still of interest today, this included the fire sprinkler system, smoke detectors and fire alarms; interior and signage lighting; and air-conditioning.

The provision of two residential flats, for use by visitors to the bank; squash courts; and firing range were relatively uncommon for the time (all removed 2001). The two doors to the main strongroom were at the time of construction the largest and most technically advanced in the southern hemisphere (Criteria A.4, B.2 & F.1).

The Reserve Bank head office building is associated with successive governors of the Reserve Bank: Dr. H. C. Coombs; J.G. Phillips (KBE); H.M. Knight (KBE DSC); R.A. Johnston (AC); B.W. Fraser and I.J. Macfarlane. The building is also associated with personnel of the Commonwealth Department of Works, Banks and Special Projects branch, responsible for the building's design in particular: C. McGrowther; Profesor (sic) H. I Ashworth; C.D. Osborne; R.M. Ure; F.C. Crocker; G. A. Rowe; as well as E.A. Watts (builders for both stages of construction) and Frederick Ward (furniture designer) (Criterion H.1).

The building has social significance being regarded by the Australian community as the home of the Reserve Bank function and the place where significant economic policy is carried out on behalf of the Nation (Criterion G.1).

     5.5                Identified National Historical Themes
The Head Office Martin Place demonstrates a number of historic themes formulated