The church, built between 1850 and 1868 in neo -Gothic style, is one of the largest in Australia and rises with its three towers behind the parliament building. Designed by William Wardell, it is considered one of the most important churches in Australia. The cross-shaped building with a double tower facade and crossing tower, whose architectural decorations are brightly set off, is based on European models and already indicates the splendid interior design on the outside.
In 1974 the church received the title of papal minor basilica .
organ
The organ was built from 1962 to 1964 by the organ builder George Fincham & Sons from Melbourne, and from 1996 to 1997 it was revised and expanded by the organ builder Australian Pipe Organs (Melbourne). A large part of an organ that was built by the organ builders Robert Mackenzie and George Fincham in the second half of the 19th century was reused in the instrument. The instrument has 81 stops on four manual works and a pedal.