Statement of values

This board game is historically significant as an example of material culture focusing on Australian political debate and discourse in the 20th and early 21st century. This is not an amateur effort; it is a polished, professional product which has been produced for sale. This demonstrates the passion of the creators to make something educational, informative and entertaining which relates to this aspect of Australian culture.

There is historical and social significance in the public democratic institution the game (rather backhandedly) celebrates. The game contributes to public understanding of parliamentary question time; one of Australia’s most recognisable (and criticised) political institutions. The requirement for ministers to be accountable to parliament and answer questions from members is a key part of Australia’s parliamentary democracy, and the often raucous behaviour of parliamentarians during this period has become an Australian cultural icon. The game uses this idea as part of its theme and gameplay—answering questions and undermining opponents are both aspects of the game. The designers have recognised question time as the most well-known aspect of Australian parliamentary politics, and have used a pun to reflect the gameplay, in which answering questions on political and policy issues is the key to winning. This contrasts, perhaps, with the common perception that politicians in the ‘real’ Question Time don’t answer questions at all, instead obfuscating and attacking their opponents.

There is significance in the game’s subject matter and theme and how they relate to Australian attitudes. Politics has been described often as a ‘game’, and the creation of a politically-themed game, ostensibly to educate and inform Australian about political procedure and history raises a number of questions. Is politics actually a game, or a serious business? Is the perception of politicians as self-serving and untrustworthy accurate? The game actively encourages players to undermine one another, and there are cards, such as ‘the rat’, which allow players to use questionably ethical tactics in order to win. The game’s website explains ‘the idea is to win, at any cost!’ Many political leaders would take exception to describing their profession in such terms. Indeed, politics is often based around compromise and ideological commitment to a cause. Ironically, rather than challenging public perceptions the game adheres to the commonly-held view of politics and political debate.