Shortly before the 2010 federal election, a couple were spotted in the museum wearing one of these T-shirts. One of our staff members asked if we could eventually have the shirt for our collection and was surprised when the visitor removed it then and there and handed it over!

The shirt was created for a wedding; all guests at the ceremony, held in the Old Parliament House gardens, were required by the bride and groom to wear the shirts. It features caricatures of both Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Leader of the Opposition, Tony Abbott.

The museum has taken this T-shirt into its collection because it is a contemporary example of the use of clothing to deliver a political message. It is a personal statement of support for a politician and political party, showing how politics can be a very personal thing among passionate supporters of politicians, parties and causes. It allows us to tell a great story about this aspect of Australian political life. But the story is incomplete. That’s where you come in!

We’d like to know more about the background of this shirt. Who designed it and why? How many copies were there and how many copies still exist? If you know anything about this unusual item of clothing, we’d love to hear from you.

If you can help us, contact us via the blog, by email or by phone (02) 6270 8222. Maybe you have your own story to tell.