We’re proud to announce that the Centre of Democracy has now opened its doors. The new gallery showcases the people and ideas that have shaped democracy in South Australia. Featuring treasures from the state’s collections and the latest in digital technology, our goal is to challenge visitors to think again about people and power.
“The opening of this new gallery creates an opportunity to share important South Australian stories with visitors and our community”
Minister for the Arts, Hon. Jack Snelling MP
South Australians can claim and celebrate a number of significant democratic milestones. These include the radically democratic Constitution of 1856, which gave all men, including Aboriginal men, the right to vote – by secret ballot. In 1894, South Australian women were among the first in the world to win the right to vote, and the first in the world to be able to stand for parliament.
The Centre of Democracy celebrates these and other important milestones. We encourage you to enjoy rarely seen treasures drawn from state, private and organisational collections, including Governor Gawler’s plumes and even former Premier Don Dunstan’s famous pink shorts.
“The History Trust of South Australia is proud to be leading this collaboration with the State Library of South Australia. True to our mission, we are ‘giving the past a future – now!'”
History Trust of South Australia Chief Executive Officer, Greg Mackie OAM
You will find us in the historic Institute Building on the corner of Kintore Avenue and North Terrace, Adelaide. While you’re here you can vote using The Democracy Machine, and have your say in Speakers’ Corner. Before your visit we encourage you to explore the centre online through our digital collection and other interactive features.
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