A Watson man who allegedly broke into Old Parliament House has told a court he is willing to pay for any damage.

Police arrested the 30-year-old around 1.20am on Tuesday after responding to reports from security of a man breaking into the building by smashing glass.

Police then used the loudspeaker to request the man make his way to the lobby, which he complied with, after being unable to locate him.

The man told officers he believed people were trapped inside Old Parliament House, police say.

Appearing in the ACT Magistrates Court on Tuesday, the man was sent for a mental health assessment before a bail hearing could be conducted.

The man told the court he would be “more than happy to pay for any damages”, before being advised by his lawyer he was not required to speak.

The matter will return to court for a bail hearing following the assessment.

Police have charged the man with trespassing on and damaging Commonwealth property.