The Importance of Secularism in Public Education

Michael Kirby, 2011 ACSSO National Conference, Sydney, October 13-14

When he retired from the High Court of Australia in February 2009, Michael Kirby was Australia’s longest serving judge. While he has had a diverse and notable legal career it is his support of human rights, and in particular public education, that he was invited to speak at this conference.

In particular, he has publicly defended the secular nature of our public education system at a time when this underlying principle is under threat.

He is a powerful advocate for public education and strongly believes that public education is the cornerstone underpinning our society.