In 1996 former NSW Premier Bob Carr announced that Government House would no longer be set aside as the private residence of the Governor. Since then the Historic Houses Trust has managed Government House as a busy ’working State House’ rather than a historic house 'frozen in time'. This includes coordinating the range of public guided tours, vice-regal receptions, government and community and cultural events that take place at Government House each week.

The State Rooms contain a remarkable collection of Australian furniture and pictures acquired over the past 150 years reflecting the long and distinguished history of the House. The HHT maintains Government House as a showcase for the best contemporary NSW art, craft and design under the 'To Furnish A Future' policy, commissioning  new works and restoration projects by leading artists and designers who are specialists in their field.