Abstract

abstract ; ?>The appropriate role of religion in Australian society has been debated since colonization. Recently the Australian government has proposed legislative changes which, it is argued, will protect the right to religious freedom. These proposed changes have been criticised from all sides, providing evidence of ongoing division with the Australian public regarding the appropriate relationship between religion and the state. While history does not offer any easy answers to these complex challenges, in this article I suggest that understanding the historical relationship between religion and government in Australia can clarify the choices that face contemporary policymakers. I suggest three directions for policy (and law) reform in relation to religious institutions: protection of the rights of Indigenous people to practice Indigenous spirituality; protection of religious minorities; and greater limits on the presence of religious institutions in the ‘third sector’ of welfare provision.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.