How valid is the Australian Constitution today?

Big Ideas

It's the living force of the nation, but how much do we understand our Constitution? Twenty five pages sets out our laws, roles of government and political structure. Enacted by a people's vote of white men over 120 years ago it does not include rights for all citizens, for Indigenous Peoples or environmental protections. So how does the Constitution work for a contemporary Australia?

Recorded at the National Archives Constitution Day event

Speakers

Justine Bell-JamesAssociate Professor & Director of Higher Degree Research & Director of HDR of T.C. Beirne School of Law, TC Beirne School of Law, University of Queensland

Professor Megan DavisPro Vice-Chancellor Indigenous at UNSW and a Professor of Law at UNSW, Co-Architect Voice Referendum an Acting Commissioner of the NSW Land and Environment Court

Harry HobbsAssociate Professor in the Faculty of Law, University of Technology Sydney

Paul Barclay (host) Journalist, producer, former host of Big Ideas

Further Information

The Australian Constitution The best of talks, forums, debates, and festivals held in Australia and around the world.