 www.araustralia.org |
Alternative Radio (Aust.) PO Box 780 Morwell Victoria 3848 Australia tel. 61-3-5134-8556 mob. 61-413-597-828 inquiries@araustralia.org |
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www.araustralia.org |
Alternative Radio (Aust.) PO Box 780 Morwell Victoria 3848 Australia tel. 61-3-5134-8556 mob. 61-413-597-828 inquiries@araustralia.org |
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Some commentators argue that during that 2001 Federal Election, something about Australian politics was fundamentally changed forever. In the post war years, Australia's image-makers cultivated the impression that Australia was a warm, welcoming nation whose open mindedness and egalitarian attitude made it a jewel in the South Seas. Migrants from all countries and cultures were welcomed in order the build the nation and relieve the burden from the sheep's back. The new industrialism ushered in the age of multiculturalism and ethnic diversity. Tolerance, acceptance and inclusion replaced the dark days of the white Australia policy. However, in the lead-up to the 2001 Federal election the spectre of Hansonism raised its head and was appropriated by the conservative parties as they ushered in a new social order in their quest for electoral victory. While no children were thrown overboard, it seems human rights, ethics and political honesty were jettisoned in the rush to regain office.
Justice Marcus Einfeld was the Foundation President of the Australian Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission in 1986. He has served as a Supreme Court and Federal Court Judge. He is currently UNICEF's Ambassador for Children and Auscare's Ambassador for Refugees. In 2002 he was elevated to the position of Peace Laureate by the United Nations. Justice Einfeld spoke at the inaugural lecture of the Gippsland Ethnic Communities Council held at Club Astoria in Morwell in May 2003. ** CD or Cassette only |