Parliament Unpacked: A Good Innings

Join us as we explore the uncanny connections between democracy, the game of cricket and the NSW Parliament.

Did you know there was an Australian cricket team before there was an Australian nation?

Our expert panel of MPs and special guests, including Geoff Armstrong, who has been described as 'Australia's pre-eminent sports historian', and former international cricketer, six-time World Champion and Commonwealth Games gold medallist Rachel Haynes, will discuss how this ever-popular sport mirrors parliamentary democracy.

• What does it take to be successful in these equally adversarial arenas?

• Edmund Barton is best remembered as Australia’s first Prime Minister, but what was his role in the great cricket riot of 1879?

• How did cricket shape the idea of Australia in the late 19th century and influence Federation?

• How have cricket and Australian democracy changed over time to reflect modern Australia?

Let’s begin the conversation about some of our favourite topics - democracy, cricket and the very first and oldest of legislature in Australia, the NSW Parliament.

When: Tuesday 4 August 2026, 5:30pm – 6:45pm

Where: Theatrette, NSW Parliament. Tickets here

💻Online: Register for online live stream

Limited availability for in-person attendance. If tickets sell out, join the waitlist to be notified of upcoming ticket releases. 

For any issues or inquiries contact us at communityengagement@parliament.nsw.gov.au 

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