Chapter 1—Agency overview
Director's Review
Old Parliament House means many things to many people, but it is instantly recognisable to all Australians as a key setting for the Australian democratic tradition. It is a tangible record of our rich and complex heritage. Australians of all backgrounds can come here and connect, not only with the broad sweep of our nation’s history, but also with something from their own community or past. Old Parliament House is more than a beautiful historic building—it is a centre for partnerships, collaboration, celebration, education and discussion.
Cultural institutions must remain relevant to the people they serve. The ongoing success of Old Parliament House depends on our ability to be responsive to change and nimble in meeting challenges. As technology enhances access we are aware that visitation is not just about the number of people who step through the front doors. So we are engaging, interacting and educating through a range of approaches. We are building deeper and richer relationships that provide diverse, instantaneous feedback, and our Twitter posts have attracted 1,600 followers. We will continue to nurture open, effective channels for exchanging ideas and information.
We also want Australians to know that no matter how many times they visit us, online or
in person, they will experience something new and fresh.
In that regard, the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House achieved some outstanding results in 2012–13. We had great success with our Art of Influence programs. We built new and valuable relationships, such as the partnership with the Bundanon Trust. That partnership enabled us to present the exhibition Arthur Boyd: An Active Witness, showcasing Boyd’s gift of art and exploring the role of the artist as activist, influenced by and influencing the changing nature of Australian democracy.
Our school holiday program, targeting young school-aged children, was very popular, and our pop-up exhibition showcasing replicas of Britain’s crown jewels drew visitors of all ages. Our near-capacity learning programs attracted over 80,000 visitors, while our Australian Prime Ministers Centre supported the research of seven fellows and summer scholars, as well as assisting numerous other researchers, helping to shape the future of our understanding of Australian history.
Many of our achievements began under the directorship of my predecessor, Jenny Anderson. Jenny commenced in 2006 and her term included the period in which Old Parliament House became an independent executive agency and the Museum of Australian Democracy was launched. I thank her for leaving us a strong foundation, and much goodwill, on which to build. I also thank the Advisory Council for its contribution to shaping Old Parliament House as a successful and vibrant institution.
The next year will be an exciting one—new exhibits, new activities and events, new partnerships and new ways to connect with people about the dynamic experience of democracy.
I am proud to join the staff of Old Parliament House in using the best available tools of the present to preserve the assets of the past and embrace the opportunities of the future.
Daryl Karp
Director