Planned in 1924, designed in 1946 and completed in 1956, the Administrative Building is significant as a good Canberra example of the Inter-war Stripped Classical style.

Key features of this style displayed by the building include: the symmetrical facades; the division of the elevations into vertical bays; the occasional use of correct classical details; the use of a basic classical column form; the expressed portico; the simple surface treatments; and subdued spandrels between the storeys which emphasise verticality.

Design elements which retain a high level of integrity include the exterior, foyers, lift lobbies and central corridors.

[34] In order to prevent spying and protect against foreign attacks, it was constructed with steel lined walls and a concrete super structure.

[35][36][34][37] By 2000, due to the modernization of the computer systems and their subsequent move to the main structure, the communications centre ceased occupation for several years.