Curated by Robyn Annear
This free exhibition celebrates the 150th anniversary of self-government in Victoria, revisiting the highs and lows of Victorian government, politics and democracy.
It spans the introduction of the secret ballot, women's struggle for voting rights, the emergence of political parties, the 1923 police strike, the Bolte years and the constitutional reforms of 2006.
Exhibits include:
- John Fawkner’s 1835 draft constitution
- political cartoons and pamphlets
- historic maps and photographs
- protest badges and banners
- antique top hats and a hat-stand from Parliament House
- Les Tanner’s 1972 caricature of Henry Bolte in the form of a coffee mug!
The exhibition shows how Victorians have had their say, not just at the polling-booth, but by taking to the streets and making themselves heard.
The 150th anniversary of the Eight-Hour Day movement is also featured, with a focus on shop-trading hours in Victoria.
The exhibition traces the changing idea of democracy since 1856, when Victoria’s first Premier feared the outbreak of 'a naked democracy' if non-property-owners were allowed to vote. It follows 150 years of achievements and reforms - right up to the constitutional amendments which, in 2006, will see the Upper House dissolved for the first time in 150 years.
What is unique about Victoria’s way of governing? How did it take shape? And does it work? Naked Democracy looks at things that Victorians take for granted - the right to vote, the right to shop, the idea that democracy is good for us - and asks, 'Was it always this way?'.
A range of Naked Democracy-related events have been organised to complement the exhibition. Free guided tours are also held during the week - see What's On for details.
Guided audio tours now available!
Take yourself on a tour of the exhibition by downloading the audio files to your mp3 player via the Naked Democracy podcast or the Learning website. The tour is narrated by the Robyn Annear, who talks about objects in the exhibition and the stories behind Victoria's legislative history.
Visit the Learning website to access the audio tour >
Related information
The 150th anniversaries of the eight-hour day in Victoria and of the Parliament of Victoria are being celebrated in 2006. Visit the official websites to find out more.
Sponsors
Read about the exhibition's sponsors. | 
