Illustrated guide to how referendums work
Discover how referendums work with this graphic story by cartoonist David Conley.
This resource explains how a referendum is passed and explores the history of referendums in Australia.

MoAD and the Courtyard Cafe are open. There may be building works during your visit. Learn more
This resource explains how a referendum is passed and explores the history of referendums in Australia.
How the Second World War influenced changes to Australian immigration.
Australians were asked to vote on whether men in National Service could be deployed to fight in World War One.
Two examples from the Museum of Australian Democracy collection.
A meeting place that's always been the centre of the action.
Through this series, support students to learn about power, media and citizenship.
What makes polling day an Australian democratic institution?
The Museum of Australian Democracy acknowledges Australia's First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We respectfully acknowledge the role that First Nations people continue to play in shaping Australia's democracy. We also acknowledge the Ngunnawal, Ngunawal and Ngambri peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the region in which MoAD is located.
© Copyright 2025 Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House Privacy Statement