The year that was through the eyes of Australia’s political cartoonists: Behind the Lines 2023

We might be glad 2023 is in the rear-view mirror – but you do not want to miss Behind the Lines 2023: All Fun and Games!

Have a laugh or reflect on the year gone by in the latest retrospective of hot political issues of 2023, as seen through the eyes of Australia’s most insightful political cartoonists.

Whether you live in the city, regional or remote Australia, times were interesting last year from soaring inflation and climate change to the Voice referendum and international conflicts. Helping us navigate these complex issues and see beyond the political game-playing were Australia’s established and emerging political cartoonists.

Behind the Lines is a touring exhibition of 100 cartoons, developed by the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House (MoAD) in Canberra, Australia’s national collecting institution dedicated to sharing the stories of Australia’s democracy.

The exhibition is showing at The Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre’s Kerry Packer Civic Gallery, University of South Australia from 4 September to 15 November.

MoAD Director Stephanie Bull:

The museum is excited to be able to continue to share its most popular exhibition with audiences around the country.

Political cartoons are an important part of our democracy – they make it fun and accessible for everyone to discuss and debate the news and ideas of the day. They help encourage discussion and understanding in diverse communities across the country.

We strive to enable and inspire audiences to explore how social and political conversations are shaping an evolving Australia, and equip them to participate as engaged citizens wherever they live in our nation.

Hawke Centre Executive Director & Events and Exhibitions Producer, Jacinta Thompson:

 The exhibition captures the political party games that were played in parliament and featured in Australia’s daily news cycle.

This fun exhibition highlights the often witty, insightful or poignant satirical drawings, paintings and sculptures created by established and emerging cartoonists. Their clever works are an interesting way to reflect and discuss the events of the year gone by.

A highlight of this year’s exhibition is a collection of works by Fiona Katauskas, a cartoonist for The Guardian, who was named 2023 Political Cartoonist of the Year. Judges acknowledged Katauskas’ work for its heart, humour, and diversity.

In 2024, the touring program is generously supported by the National Collecting Institutions Touring and Outreach Program, an Australian Government program aiming to improve access to the national collections for all Australians.

Behind the Lines is showing at The Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre’s Kerry Packer Civic Gallery at UniSA, located on Level 3 of the Hawke Building, 55 North Terrace, City West Campus, until 15 November, Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm. Free entry.