Midwinter Ball: Politicians frock-up for charity at Parliament House

On the final night of winter, it seemed there was never a more exciting time to have a midwinter gala.

Federal politicians, corporate Australia and the big-rigs of the media world let their hair down at Parliament House in Canberra overnight for the Press Gallery Midwinter Ball.

The event, which usually falls in June, was pushed back due to the mammoth election campaign.

Hundreds gathered in the Great Hall for the annual charity night, with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Opposition leader Bill Shorten leading the pack.

Women and men of the house dazzled in their finest, with senators Jacqui Lambie and Darren Hinch turning heads as they arrived together in red.

While there were some interesting fashion choices, with Treasurer Scott Morrison sporting a Cronulla Sharks scarf.

An auction during the night raised more than $340,000 for multiple charities, including Oz Havest and Orange Sky Laundry.

On the table for bidders this year was a private tour of Parliament House with Malcolm Turnbull, a morning run and breakfast with Bill Shorten, and dinner with Parliamentary Press Gallery Members.

Julie Bishop offered up a Hollywood Experience package, including a trip to Los Angeles to dine at Curtis Stone's restaurant and VIP tickets to G'Day USA.

But now the day after, the tuxedos and gowns have been hung up for another year, with politicians back to work - even if it is with a sore head.