The prime minister is looking for a new home after her official residence was declared a potential fire hazard.
Special minister of state Gary Gray has said that Julia Gillard is looking for “suitable, secure accommodation” in the national capital of Canberra while her official home, known as the Lodge, has its leaking roof replaced and is renovated over 18 months.
The 84-year-old building near Parliament House has hosted world dignitaries including President George W Bush, who attended a barbecue there during a 2003 visit to Australia.
Gray said its original copper electrical wiring was enclosed in cloth insulation, which could become a fire hazard. He added that the slate tiled roof was dangerous and no longer weatherproofed the building.
