The History of The Trust Building

Heritage architecture and granduer

Construction of the Melbourne Harbour Trust's new offices began in 1929 and was not completed until early in 1932.

Prior to common use of aircraft in the post Second World War period, people and goods were transported from overseas to Victoria by ship and Melbourne was the State's principal port.

The Melbourne Harbour Trust was founded in 1877 and administered Melbourne's port until recent times, when it became known as the Port of Melbourne Authority.

The nature of this building, its size and particually the high quality of its exterior and interior design, detailing and materials, all reflect the importance of the port authority during this period.

The former Port of Melbourne Authority Building is of architectural significance as one of the most accomplished examples in Melbourne of 20th Century Beaux-Arts-influenced Greek revival architecture. The Beaux-Arts style was relatively uncommon in Australia. It is also architecturally significant as one of the best finished buildings in Melbourne, with the internal and external detailing demonstrating particularly outstanding craftsmanship and the notable application of decorative schemes and materials in construction.

the Building's architectural worth was recognised soon after its completion, when it won the 1933 Royal Victorian Institute of Architect's Street Architecture Medal.

The building was occupied by the port authority until 1982, when the former State Electricity Commission took over. It was vacant from 1999 until 2001 when it was taken over by the Trust Bar and Restaurant and restored to its former glory for all to enjoy its splendor.