Would you tell a lie to win an election?

Democracy depends on trust, trust comes from transparency and accountability. While the great majority of Australian politicians and public servants act with integrity – this museum focuses on the times when they did not.

The events highlighted are those that have tested our democratic systems and that have shaped public accountability. They reveal the importance of scrutiny, transparency and reform.

We do so not to dismiss public service which is a worthy and essential calling, but to better understand how institutions are tested and how they can be strengthened.

The good politicians and bureaucrats will not grace these pages unless they are the worthy ones who exposed the scandal. The instances highlighted in this Museum show what can go wrong if we are not always aware, informed and vigilant.

“Power comes from self-confidence and knowledge… keep your head and heart connected – it has to feel right.” Wendy McCarthy AC

“The standard you walk past is the standard you accept.” David Morrison, Australian Chief of Army

“Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.“ Lord Acton