"We are incredibly excited to reach 3 million visitors. It wouldn't have been possible without our engaging exhibitions, events and programs developed by our hardworking staff and volunteers," MoAD's deputy director Andrew Harper said.

And the lucky visitor? It was Olivia Cheong, a student from Emmanuel Catholic College in Perth, who was visiting MoAD to take part in a curriculum-based school program with her school.

During the program, the students explored the heritage spaces of Old Parliament House including the exact locations where decisions that shaped the nation were made.

MoAD manager of learning Deborah Sulway said she was overjoyed that a student was the 3 millionth visitor to MoAD.

"While all of the students that visit MoAD are special, Olivia Cheong and her school, Emmanuel Catholic College, are part of a historic moment at MoAD," she said.

Last year, almost 90,000 students and teachers came from all over Australia to participate in MoAD's onsite learning programs. However, MoAD's aim is to give all students a chance to explore this iconic building, even if they cannot visit Canberra.

MoAD has recently developed a virtual learning program, the Digital Excursion, which allows students to participate in MoAD's facilitated learning programs from their own classroom, anywhere in Australia.

"While we often have students visiting from all over Australia, including Western Australia, Victoria and Tasmania, a student should have the same learning opportunities, regardless of whether they visit Canberra," Ms Sulway said.

"Through the Digital Excursion, we aim to take democracy all over Australia, and prepare students for the future, by providing them with the necessary tools and resources to become active citizens."

For more information go to moadoph.gov.au