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# Freedom For Faith

Religious Freedom Is A Human Right

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Pages

- [Home](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/) - Equipping you to defend religious freedom. Freedom for Faith partners with churches, denominations and faith leaders to advocate for religious freedom for everyone. We are in partnership with most major Christian denominations and faith groups.
- [Thank you for signing](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/petition-thanks/) - Your voice will add to thousands of Australians calling on the Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition to make real commitments to protecting religious freedom. Together, we can make a difference. Tell your friends Sharing a post to your social media or forwarding a quick email will help many more people recognise the issue
- [Current Issues](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/current-issues/) - Freedom for Faith is supporting churches across Australia in campaigns to protect religious freedom. NSW: Conversion Therapy Serious problems remain with government advice being given on how the NSW Conversion Practices Ban Act is being applied. This breaks the Premier’s promise that “an individual, of their own consent, seeking guidance through prayer will not be
- [Sign the petition to protect your religious freedom!](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/petition/) - Tell the Prime Minister to keep his promises and protect religious freedom. Join thousands of Australians signing the petition to protect your rights.
- [Pray with us](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/pray/) - Thanks for praying with us on Wednesday, it was an encouraging time of fellowship and unity. We'd love you to join our next prayer meeting in a couple of months. Keep an eye on the newsletter for the next date. Join our newsletter Sign up for our updates to know the latest on religious freedom
- [Pray with us](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/pray-subscribe/) - Join us on Wednesday 10 June, 7:30pm for a Zoom prayer meeting. The meeting will include an update on religious freedom issues across Australia from Mike Southon, our Executive Director, and other members of the Freedom for Faith team. Prayers will be lead by Freedom for Faith Board members, including Bishop Michael Stead (Anglican Bishop
- [Support Us](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/donate/) - You can protect religious freedom! Freedom for Faith equips you to defend your freedoms through our Campaign Fund and our Public Library. Select the fund you wish to support: Freedom for Faith Campaign Fund Public Library (Tax Deductible) The Campaign Fund supports the main work of Freedom for Faith. Your gift to this fund will
- [Stay informed](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/subscribe/) - Join our newsletter Sign up for our updates to know the latest on religious freedom across Australia. First Name * Last Name * Email Address * SUBSCRIBE Support us Your generous financial support ensures we continue to resource churches across Australia, and remain an effective, recognised voice for religious freedom. Donate
- [Candidate Forums Feedback](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/forums-old/forums-feedback/) - Thank you for hosting a candidate forum. We appreciate your partnership in helping local Christians to make informed choices when they vote, and giving Christians a voice. We pray that the forum has helped you, your church and the Christians of your electorate to develop good ongoing working relationships with your next Member of Parliament.
- [Your gift keeps Freedom for Faith in the room](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/donate-eofy2026-ea/) - Religious freedom in Australia is being decided right now — in drafting rooms, in MPs' offices, in bureaucratic guidance documents most Australians will never read. When you give today, your gift keeps Freedom for Faith in those rooms — in Western Australia while the conversion practices Bill is still being written, and across 181 candidate
- [About Us](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/about-us/) - Freedom for Faith partners with churches, denominations and faith leaders to advocate for religious freedom for everyone. Our affiliates Freedom for Faith is affiliated with five major Christian denominations who partner closely, support us financially and provide direction to our mission and strategy. Our Executive Director Mike Southon was born in New Zealand and grew
- [Support Us](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/donate-old2/) - You can protect religious freedom! Together, we have proven that religious freedom can be protected. In NSW, Queensland, South Australia and Federally, we have defeated or improved legislation that would have seriously undermined our rights. The next 18 months will be critical in turning the tide to regain lost freedoms. Your gift will make an
- [Support Us](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/donate-p/) - You can protect religious freedom! Together, we have proven that religious freedom can be protected. In NSW, Queensland, South Australia and Federally, we have defeated or improved legislation that would have seriously undermined our rights. The next 18 months will be critical in turning the tide to regain lost freedoms. Your gift will make an
- [Senior Leaders' Forum Interest](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/senior-leaders-forum-interest/) - On the Sunday evening before the Prayer Breakfast, the Parliamentary Christian Fellowship is hosting a dinner and networking forum for Christians who are CEOs or heads of organisations (e.g. denominational leaders, school principals, board chairs, COOs, CIOs, CFOs, Senators, Members of Parliament, etc). The Senior Leaders' Forum is a media-free opportunity to facilitate vocational conviction
- [Freedom25 Videos](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/f25-video/) - Patrick Parkinson Alex Deagon Monica Doumit Hugh McDermott and Julian Leeser Mike Southon
- [Freedom for Faith Public Library](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/public-library/) - The Freedom for Faith Public Library consists of a collection of resources to educate, equip, and promote awareness of issues concerning religious freedom in Australia. Hard copy resources of the Library are available through the Donald Robinson Library on campus at Moore College. The Donald Robinson Library is open to public access with users expected
- [Senior Leaders Forum Feedback](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/senior-leaders/) - Thank you for attending the Senior Leaders Forum at St Mark’s Theological Centre last year. As we plan for the next Forum on Sunday, November 2, we would greatly appreciate your feedback. Please note: Freedom for Faith is assisting with the distribution of this survey on behalf of the Senior Leaders Forum organisers. The Forum
- [Freedom25 Feedback](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/f25-feedback/) - Thank you for being part of Freedom25. Your feedback will be invaluable as we plan for future conferences.
- [Meet the Board](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/meet-the-board/) - Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom protected and promoted in Australia. Michael Stead Bishop Michael Stead is the current Chairperson of Freedom for Faith. Michael holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of New South Wales, is an honours graduate of Moore College with a Bachelor of Divinity and
- [Positions Available](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/jobs/) - For more information and to apply contact us: info@freedomforfaith.org.au We currently have no positions available.
- [Faith Leaders Briefing](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/briefing/) - Wednesday June 19th, 10amOnline via Zoom Freedom for Faith is hosting an online briefing for all NSW faith leaders about the current state of Alex Greenwich's "Equality" Bill, what is being asked for by faith leaders, and what is likely to happen in the discussions. This event is open for all state-level faith leaders. Due
- [Religious Freedom Week Resources](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/religious-freedom-week/religious-freedom-week-resources/) - Religious Freedom Week Resources PowerPoint Slide Option 1 PowerPoint Slide Option 2 Religious Freedom Weekend Booklet Video: Religious Freedom is in Crisis Prayer Points for the Persecuted Church1 Pray for strength (Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬-‭19) Suffering believers need strength to endure the pain, and pressure of persecution. Pray for provision (Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭19) Faced with poverty, loneliness and
- [Religious Freedom Week](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/religious-freedom-week/) - Join with Churches and Faith Communities across Australia to Pray for and Protect Religious Freedom On October 16-22, join with faith groups across the nation to pray for the globally persecuted and for the protection of religious freedoms in Australia. Religious Freedom is only weakly protected in Australian law, and those protections are rapidly eroding.
- [Privacy Policy](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/privacy-policy/) - Introduction Freedom for Faith (“FFF”, “we” or “us”) is a Christian legal think tank which exists to see religious freedom promoted and protected in Australia and beyond. Purpose This Privacy Policy summarises how we will deal with your personal information. Commitment We are committed to protecting your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act

## Accordions

- [Candidate Forums FAQ](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/accordions/candidate-forums-faq/)
- [MP Meeting Guide](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/accordions/3062/)

## Products

- [Recurring Donation (Freedom For Faith)](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/product/recurring-donation-fff/)
- [Recurring Donation (Public Library)](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/product/recurring-donation-public-library/)

## Events

- [FREEDOM24 - 2024 National Conference](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/events/freedom24-2024-national-conference/) - FREEDOM24 conference will develop your understanding of threats to religious freedom in Australia from historical, theological and policy perspectives. Historian Sarah Irving-Stonebraker will examine the history of religious freedom, while John McClean of Christ College will share a theological perspective on how the church is to respond to legal threats to ministry. We will also have a number of experts unpack the major religious freedom concerns in Australia, as well as implications and paths forward for advocacy. The conference will run from 9am-4pm on Monday August 5th at Village Church Annadale in Sydney. In-person tickets include morning tea, lunch and a complimentary coffee cart. We are also providing FREE livestream tickets this year, to maximise access for those who cannot attend in person.
- [Freedom22 - National Conference 2022](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/events/freedom22-national-conference-2022/) - Religious Freedom in Australia has reached a crisis point. The promised protections in the Federal Religious Discrimination Bill have been put on hold, and new State laws have removed several religious freedom rights from faith communities. These new issues include unprecedented intrusions into prayer, unsympathetic treatment of conscience exemptions, reduced employment rights for religious schools, and a troubling surge in discrimination cases against Jewish, Muslim and other minority faith groups. Will

## Library

- [Freedom Matters](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom-matters/) - Freedom Matters is a conversation with Bishop Michael Stead and Monica Doumit about religious freedom issues across Australia. Download podcast notes and list of religious freedom issues Latest episode: August 2026 Previous Episodes: Freedom Matters June 26 (Episode Notes PDF) Freedom Matters April 26 (Episode notes PDF) Freedom Matters Nov 25 (Episode notes PDF)
- [Freedom Matters August 26](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom-matters-august-26/) - Freedom Matters is a conversation with Bishop Michael Stead and Monica Doumit about religious freedom issues across Australia. Download podcast notes and list of religious freedom issues
- [NSW Greens' Human Rights Bill](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nsw-greenshr/) - (Our full submission has been lodged and will be available once published by the Committee) The Human Rights Bill 2025 is a private member’s bill introduced by Greens MP Jenny Leong MP that would establish a statutory human rights framework for New South Wales. It would require legislation to be interpreted consistently with the rights
- [Freedom Matters April 26](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom-matters-april-26/) - Freedom Matters is a conversation with Bishop Michael Stead and Monica Doumit about religious freedom issues across Australia. Download podcast notes and list of religious freedom issues
- [Freedom Matters June 26](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom-matters-june-26/) - Freedom Matters is a conversation with Bishop Michael Stead and Monica Doumit about religious freedom issues across Australia. Download podcast notes and list of religious freedom issues
- [Freedom Matters Nov 25](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom-matters-nov-25/) - Freedom Matters is a conversation with Bishop Michael Stead and Monica Doumit about religious freedom issues across Australia. Download podcast notes and list of religious freedom issues
- [Victorian "Conversion Practices" Ban](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/vic-cp/) - The Victorian Government have launched an inquiry into the Change and Suppression Practices Act. Rather than being an opportunity to correct the bill’s overreach, the review seems designed to expand it. This review is one of the few real opportunities to push back on this legislation which is a major threat to religious freedom. Submissions
- [NSW "Conversion Practices"](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nsw-cp/) - In March 2024, the NSW Parliament passed the Conversion Practices Ban Act, a week after revealing the legislation. It came into effect in April 2025. During and after the 2023 NSW Election, the incoming Premier and Government made firm commitments to faith communities to protect prayer, preaching and consensual requests for support. The final legislation
- [Development of the NSW Conversion Practices Ban](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nsw-cp-history/) - Labor's Promises Leading up to the 2023 NSW election, the Labor party and Chris Minns made clear commitments to protect faith communities in any “LGBTIQ conversion practices” legislation. At a faith leaders forum in Paramatta, Chris Minns said: Taking offense at the teachings of a religious leader will not be banned. Expressing a religious belief
- [NSW Conversion Practices Ban Act 2024](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nsw-cp-act/) - The Conversion Practices Ban Act was developed during confidential consultation with a small group of faith leaders and other stake holders. Unfortunately, the Act has significant problems and ambiguities in it, as a result of the narrow consultation, last-minute changes to the bill before introduction, and speeches from the Attorney General and the Leader of
- [Statement on the Bondi Attacks](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nsw-bondi/) - When violence erupts in a place as ordinary—and beloved—as Bondi, it tears a hole in the fabric of trust we all rely on to live together. The recent antisemitic shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach was an attack on people at prayer and on the idea that every person and community should be
- [NSW Abortion](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nsw-abortion/) - In NSW, consciencious objection to abortion is under threat. NSW Health Employment Requirements The Chief Executive of a Local Health District has told a parliamentary committee that providing ‘termination services’ may be a condition of employment in the NSW health system. Ms Jill Ludford, answering questions from NSW Shadow Assistant Attorney-General Susan Carter MLC, said
- [NT Voluntary Assisted Dying](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nt-vad/) - Legislation Expected Early Next Year Freedom for Faith Continues Advocacy Freedom for Faith will continue to make submissions to the Northern Territory Government following a parliamentary report that provides drafting instructions for a new law on Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD). In August, Freedom for Faith made a submission to the Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee
- [NSW Abortion Requirements](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nsw-abortion-2/) - The Chief Executive of a Local Health District has told a parliamentary committee that providing ‘termination services’ may be a condition of employment in the NSW health system. Ms Jill Ludford, answering questions from NSW Shadow Assistant Attorney-General Susan Carter MLC, said government health services had to balance conscientious objections by health practitioners with the
- [NSW Voluntary Assisted Dying](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nsw-vad/) - Right now in NSW, religious retirement villages or residential facilities are forced to allow “voluntary assisted dying” (VAD) on their premises. Even though individuals have the right to conscientious objection, faith-based institutions do not. On October 15, Susan Carter MLC introduced a bill into the NSW Legislative Council that would give conscience protections to faith-based
- [Victorian Abortion Report](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/vic-abortion/) - Two Victorian political parties and their MPs have released a report on access to abortion, which recommends significantly undermining conscientious objection. One of their recommendations was to remove the ability for faith-based institutions (including hospitals) to choose not to have VAD operating in their facilities. However, another recommendation is even more insidious: the report calls
- [Federal Electoral Matters Inquiry](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/fed-electmat/) - Following the 2025 Federal Election, the Parliamentary Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters convened their usual post-election inquiry. The terms of the Inquiry mostly focus on improving the electoral system, and the Special Minister of State's request to examine the length of the parliamentary term, the potential for fixed terms, and the number of MPs.
- [Victorian Inquiry into Cults](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/vic-cults/) - Religious Freedom at Risk in Victorian Inquiry into Cults and Coercive Control The Victorian Government is holding an inquiry into cults, coercive control, and high-demand groups. While the Committee can be commended on seeking to protect individuals from real harm and coercion, there are great concerns about the definitions that the Committee is using, including
- [Northern Territory](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nt/) - Recent issues affecting religious freedom include amendments to the anti-discrimination Act and drafting of new Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) legislation. Current Issues Voluntary Assisted Dying Freedom for Faith is preparing a second submission to the CLP Government to reinforce our initial submission which calls to protect individuals and institutions which have conscientious objections to VAD.
- [NT Anti-discrimination](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nt-ad/) - CLP Government Falls Short on Religious Freedom Commitments Concerns Over the Anti-Discrimination Amendment Bill 2025 Despite some positive changes, the Northern Territory Government has fallen far short of what faith communities had expected with its amendments to the Anti-Discrimination Act. Freedom for Faith sponsored a joint letter to the NT Attorney-General, signed by 12 leaders
- [NSW Anti-Discrimination Review](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nsw-ad/) - The NSW Government must protect religious freedom by protecting people from discrimination based on faith, and enshrining the positive right for faith-based organisations to operate according to their faith. In August 2023, the NSW Attorney General asked the NSW Law Reform Commission (NSW LRC) to undertake a review of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 . In
- [Pronouns, employment and religious schools](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/vic-pronouns/) - Originally posted by Assoc Prof Neil Foster in his Law and Religion Australia blog. Recent press reports (such as this one from the Guardian) say that an employed teacher at a Victorian Roman Catholic school has taken action against the school for “gender identity” discrimination. The school apparently has refused to allow the teacher, Myka Sanders, who identifies
- [Victoria](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/vic/) - The Victorian State Election is scheduled for November 28th, 2026. Victoria has been the origin of a number of laws and policies that have undermined religious freedom, so this election will be a significant not only for the state but the whole nation. Current Issues Voluntary Assisted Dying A significant amendment in the Voluntary Assisted
- [Voluntary Assisted Dying review - Victoria](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/vic-vad/) - Key Religious Freedom Concern A significant amendment in the Voluntary Assisted Dying Amendment (Equity and Access) Bill 2024 proposes removing a health practitioner’s right to conscientiously object to providing information about voluntary assisted dying (VAD). Section 5 of the bill would repeal Section 7(a) of the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2017, which currently allows registered
- [WA Conversion Practices Ban](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/wa-ct/) - The WA Government has been running a consultation on “conversion therapy” legislation that has included many LGBTIQ activist groups and some Christian denominations, but has excluded many other denominations and faith groups. Following the 2025 Election, the new Attorney General Tony Buti quietly announced that a ban on conversion therapy will be introduced to Parliament
- [Victorian Education Policies](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/vic-education/) - General Concerns Victorian Government education policies are increasingly limiting the space for religious beliefs in public institutions. The Education and Training Reform Act 2006 and related policies have reduced the visibility of religious expression—such as shifting Special Religious Instruction (SRI) to outside regular class hours. This change restricts access for many students, especially those unable
- [Victorian Anti-vilification Legislation](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/vic-vil-act/) - Religious Freedom Concerns The Justice Legislation Amendment (Anti-vilification and Social Cohesion) Act 2025 significantly expands Victoria’s anti-vilification laws. While its goal is to protect vulnerable groups from hate speech, many religious organisations – including Freedom for Faith – have raised serious concerns about its impact on religious freedom and free expression. Key Concerns Broad and
- [Victorian Inquiry into Cults - Detailed Analysis](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/vic-cults-detail/) - One of the biggest dangers we can identify for this inquiry is the potential for expanding the definition of “cult” to encompass unpopular religions. We are encouraged by the initial discussion in the Guidance Note about the nature of cults: This Inquiry is not about judging or questioning anyone’s beliefs, whether religious or otherwise. Many
- [Political Commitments on Religious Freedom](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/commitments/) - In the leadup to the 2025 federal election, senior leaders from across faith communities wrote to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, asking them to make commitments to protect religious freedom on all its forms. Letters were also sent to the Greens and key independent MPs. You can read all the letters and
- [Federal VET Standrds](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/fed-vet/) - In 2024, the Federal Department of Employment and Workplace Relations released draft standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs). The standards would apply to all non-government VET training institutions, including many faith-based colleges. Some of these colleges are religious in identity, and others were providing theological and ministry training. The greatest concern arose with Standard 2.5,
- [NSW Conversion Practices Ban - ADNSW Advice](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nsw-cp-adnsw/) - Anti-Discrimination NSW released a series of explanatory resources on the day the Act came into force: https://antidiscrimination.nsw.gov.au/discrimination/conversion-practices.html These explanatory materials, taken as a whole, misrepresent the Act, because they fail to reflect the “appropriate balance between prohibiting LGBTQ+ conversion practices [and] respecting freedom of belief and expression” that the Attorney-General referred to in the Second
- [Victorian Vilification Legislation](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/vic-vil/) - The Victorian government has introduced the Justice Legislation Amendment (Anti-Vilification and Social Cohesion) Bill 2024 to replace the Racial and Religious Tolerance Act 2000 (RRT Act) with a much broader set of bans on speech and conduct which people experience as hateful or contemptuous on the basis of their race or religion or sex, sexual
- [Misinformation / Disinformation Legislation](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/misinformation-disinformation/) - The Government have just announced that they will withdraw the Misinformation and Disinformation Bill immediately. This is a fantastic win for religious freedom in Australia, and proof that we can protect our freedoms when we work together and speak with one voice! The Communications Legislation Amendment (Combatting Misinformation and Disinformation) Bill 2024 was introduced in
- [Federal Hate Crimes Amendments](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/federal-hate-crimes/) - The Criminal Code Amendment (Hate Crimes) Bill 2024 was introduced into Parliament on 12 September 2024, and then sent to Committee. The Bill is the result of an extended confidential consultation process between the Government and a limited number of faith leaders. It is a improvement on previous broad-reaching proposals which would have had a
- [Victorian Anti-Vilification Legislation](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/victorian-anti-vilification-legislation/) - In September 2024, the Victorian Government released proposed changes to anti-vilification laws in Victoria. These changes would significantly broaden the reach of anti-vilification legislation and criminalise a wider range of acts. The proposed legislation would repeal the current Racial and Religious Tolerance Act 2001, with criminal sections moved to the Crimes Act 1958 and civil
- [NSW Anti-Discrimination Review](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nsw-anti-discrimination-review/) - In September 2023, the NSW Government set the NSW Law Reform Commission the task of reviewing the 1977 Anti-Discrimination Act. They were asked to consider the following: whether the range of attributes protected against discrimination requires reform whether the areas of public life in which discrimination is unlawful require reform whether the existing tests for
- [Submission on Proposed Changes to Victoria's Vilification Legislation](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-on-proposed-changes-to-victorias-vilification-legislation/) - EXECUTIVE SUMMARY While we appreciate that the intent of this review and these proposals are to, “protect morepeople…[and] promote the full and equal participation of all Victorians in a society that valuesfreedom of expression”, we have serious concerns. Rather than protecting and promoting equalparticipation in Victorian society, we fear that these proposals risk stifling free
- [Submission on The Criminal Code Amendment (Hate Crimes) Bill 2024](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/hate-crimes-bill-2024/) - Executive Summary Our concern arises from the interaction between adding new protected categories, the lowered bar of the existing and new offences, and uncertainty as to whether the definition of “force or violence” includes psychological harms. We strongly affirm that all people are equally valuable and that no person should suffer physical force or violence,
- [Productivity Commission Review into Philanthropy](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/productivity-commission-review-into-philanthropy/) - In February 2023, the Treasurer asked the Productivity Commission to investigate how to increase philanthropic giving in Australia. In November 2023 the Commission released its draft report. Unfortunately, the report’s recommendations went far beyond the terms of reference, directly targeting religion. The Commission recommended massively extending tax-deductibility for almost every form of non-profit, with the
- [Religious Discrimination Bill](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/rdb/) - Australia has no Federal legislation to protect from people religious discrimination, or to protect the rights of people of faith to hold, express or live out their faith. Some States have religious discrimination legislation; however the protection is often limited, and NSW and South Australia have none. As well as protection from discrimination, people of
- [QLD Anti-Discrimination Bill](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/qld-anti-discrimination-bill/) - In February 2024, the Queensland Government introduced a complete rewrite of the Anti-Discrimination legislation. The Bill outlined a wide range of categories that it would be illegal to discriminate against, including sexuality, sexual activity and gender identity. They did allow for discrimination where a role had genuine occupational requirements. The example given was that a
- [QLD “Respect at Work” Bill](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/qld-respect-at-work-bill/) - The Queensland Government introduced The “Respect At Work” Bill in June 2024, to replace the failed Anti-Discrimination Bill. This legislation was much more restrained and was primarily intended to implement the recommendations from the Federal Respect at Work report, including preventing sex-based discrimination. Generally speaking, a goal that we can all support! However, there are
- [Schools' Rights](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/schools-rights/) - Since 2018, there have been attacks on the right of faith-based schools to hire staff who believe in and live out the faith of the school, and to engage in disciplinary action where staff or students do not live in accordance with that faith. Currently, this issue is legislated by the federal Sex Discrimination Act
- [Greenwich "Equality" Bill](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/greenwich-equality-bill/) - On the evening of October 16th, a heavily changed version of Alex Greenwich’s “Equality” Bill was passed by the Legislative Assembly What is in the final Bill?The good news is that the vast majority of the Bill has been removed. This includes: All changes to the anti-discrimination act that would have stopped faith organisations and
- [ICCPR](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/iccpr/) - The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) is a multinational treaty that commits nations to respect the right to life, freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, electoral rights and rights to due process and a fair trial. The covenant was finalised in 1966 and Australia became a signatory in 1980.
- [Human Rights Act](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/human-rights-act/) - Summary: Australia’s implementation of international human rights is incomplete – including not protecting religious freedom The Australian Human Rights Commission has proposed a human rights act that Redefines internationally defined rights in a manner that waters down religious freedom Invents a new right to “not be treated with contempt” Subordinates religious freedom under other rights
- [SA Conversion Practices Prohibition Bill 2024](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/sa-conversion-practices/) - The South Australian Conversion Practices Prohibition Bill 2024 was introduced on 11 September 2024, and was passed on the 24 September after a truncated and rushed debate. Freedom for Faith opposes coercive and barbaric practices that are intended to change a person’s gender identity or sexual attraction. However, “Conversion Practice” bans are problematic. Coercive and
- [Freedom22 Conference](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom22-conference/)
- [Freedom23 Conference](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom23-conference/)
- [Freedom24 Conference](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom24-conference/)
- [Misinformation and Disinformation Bill 2023](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-misinformation-and-disinformation-bill-2023/) - This submission is on behalf of, and co-signed by: Australian Baptist Ministries Australian Christian Churches Anglican Church Diocese of Sydney Seventh-day Adventist Church The submission was coordinated by Freedom for Faith, a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom for all faiths protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. Freedom for Faith
- [AHRC Costs Protection Bill](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/ahrc-costs-protection/) - Inquiry into the Australian Human Rights Commission Amendment (Costs Protection) Bill 2023 The Australian Human Rights Commission Costs Protection Bill 2024 was passed on 19 September 2024. Freedom for Faith was heavily engaged in advocacy to the Government, including a submission, testifying before the Parliamentary Committee, and individual advocacy. We are very disappointed that the
- [Testimony on AHRC Costs Protection Bill](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/ahrc-costs-recovery-testimony/) - Thank you for the opportunity to testify last week. Sexual harassment is a significant issue in Australia, and we commend the efforts to reduce it. However, if the proposed model were to go forward, we again ask the Government to focus their reforms on sexual harassment and not all cases that fall under the AHRC.
- [Mike Southon – Religious freedom across Australia](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/mike-southon-religious-freedom-across-australia/)
- [Mark Spencer– Ensuring a positive future for Christian schools](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/mark-spencer-ensuring-a-positive-future-for-christian-schools/)
- [Mark Sneddon – A Federal law to prohibit religious discrimination: why, what and when?](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/mark-sneddon-a-federal-law-to-prohibit-religious-discrimination-why-what-and-when/)
- [Sarah Irving-Stonebraker – What you need to know about the history of religious freedom](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/sarah-irving-stonebraker-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-history-of-religious-freedom/)
- [John McClean – Living with the Lion: Framing legal threats to gospel ministry theologically](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/john-mcclean-living-with-the-lion-framing-legal-threats-to-gospel-ministry-theologically/)
- [Submission on the Respect at Work and Other Matters Amendment Bill 2024](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-on-the-respect-at-work-and-other-matters-amendment-bill-2024/) - Executive Summary Freedom of religion and freedom of speech have been recognised as fundamental human rights at least since the creation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These rights are articulated in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the Queensland Human Rights Act 2019 There are a number of elements
- [Submission on the ALRC Consultation Paper on Religious Educational Institutions and Discrimination Laws](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-on-the-alrc-consultation-paper-on-religious-educational-institutions-and-discrimination-laws/) - Excerpt: The Australian Law Reform Commission released a Consultation Paper for its current reference on “Religious Educational Institutions and Anti-Discrimination Laws” on 27 January 2023, and invited public submissions by 24 February 2023. The paper, while formally acknowledging the importance of religious freedom and parental rights, is a serious disappointment to those involved in religious
- [Submission to the Review of the Western Australian Equal Opportunity Act](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-the-review-of-the-western-australian-equal-opportunity-act/) - This document represents the response of Freedom for Faith to the discussion paper issued by the Law Reform Commission of Western Australia, Review of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA): Project 111 Discussion Paper (August 2021).Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom protected and promoted in Australia
- [Submission to Parliamentary Human Rights Committee on the Religious Discrimination Bill](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-parliamentary-human-rights-committee-on-the-religious-discrimination-bill/) - About Freedom for Faith Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. It is led by people drawn from a range of denominational churches including the Anglican Church Diocese of Sydney, the Australian Christian Churches, Australian Baptist Churches, the Presbyterian Church of
- [Submission to the Senate Legal Affairs Committee on the Religious Discrimination Bill](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-the-senate-legal-affairs-committee-on-the-religious-discrimination-bill/) - About Freedom for Faith Freedom for Faith (FFF) is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. It is led by people drawn from a range of denominational churches including the Anglican Church Diocese of Sydney, the Australian Christian Churches, Australian Baptist Churches, the Presbyterian Church
- [Submission to the Review of the Queensland Anti-Discrimination Act](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-the-review-of-the-queensland-anti-discrimination-act/) - Queensland Human Rights Commission - Review of Queensland’s Anti-Discrimination Act: Discussion Paper (Nov 2021) About Freedom for Faith Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. It is led by people drawn from a range of denominational churches including the Australian Christian Churches,
- [Submission to ACT Discrimination Law Reform Exposure Draft Bill Amending Discrimination Act 1991](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-act-discrimination-law-reform-exposure-draft-bill-amending-discrimination-act-1991/) - Australian Capital Territory Discrimination Law Reform Exposure Draft Bill amending Discrimination Act 1991 (ACT) Submission from Freedom for Faith June 2022 About Freedom for Faith Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. It is led by people drawn from a range of
- [Submission to the Exposure Draft of the Anti-Discrimination Amendment Bill 2022 (NT)](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-the-exposure-draft-of-the-anti-discimination-amendment-bill-2022-nt/) - Submission to the Exposure Draft of the Anti-Discrimination Amendment Bill 2022 (Northern Territory) About Freedom for Faith Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. It is led by people drawn from a range of denominational churches including the Anglican Church Diocese
- [Submission on the ALRC Consultation Paper on Religious Educational Institutions and Discrimination Laws](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/alrc-submission-consultation/) - About Freedom for Faith Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom for all faiths protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. It is led by people drawn from a range of denominational churches including the Anglican Church Diocese of Sydney, The Catholic church, the Australian Christian Churches, Australian
- [Submission to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights’ Inquiry into Australia’s Human Rights Framework](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-human-rights/) - Executive Summary We are concerned about the ongoing and systematic imbalance in the status of the right to freedom of religion with respect to other rights. The current balance in Australia does not reflect international conventions such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). The Human Rights Framework (HRF) has not been
- [Submission to Calvary Hospital Inquiry](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-calvary-hospital-inquiry/) - This submission is on behalf of, and co-signed by: Australian Christian Churches Anglican Church, Sydney Diocese Baptist Union of Australia Seventh-day Adventist Church in Australia The submission was coordinated by Freedom for Faith, a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom for all faiths protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. Freedom
- [Submission to the Multicultural Framework Review](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-the-multicultural-framework-review/) - This submission is on behalf of, and co-signed by: Australian Baptist Ministries Australian Christian Churches Anglican Church Diocese of Sydney Presbyterian Church of Australia in NSW Seventh-day Adventist Church The submission was coordinated by Freedom for Faith, a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom for all faiths protected and promoted in
- [Preliminary Submission to the NSW Law Reform Commission on Review of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/preliminary-submission-to-the-nsw-law-reform-commission-on-review-of-the-anti-discrimination-act-1977/) - This submission is on behalf of, and co-signed by: Australian Baptist MinistriesAustralian Christian ChurchesAnglican Church Diocese of Sydney Seventh-day Adventist Church The submission was coordinated by Freedom for Faith, a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom for all faiths protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. Freedom for Faith is led
- [Submission on the Draft Report into Philanthropy 2024](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-on-the-draft-report-into-philanthropy/) - Executive Summary 4. We are concerned that the Commission has explicitly treated religious philanthropy differently to other forms of philanthropy. This includes: Extending DGR status to a wide range of charities, but expressly not charities with the type of Advancing Religion Removing DGR status from Religious Education in Government Schools Removing or denying DGR status
- [Submission on the NSW Equality Bill 2023](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-on-the-nsw-equality-bill-2023/) - Excerpt 4. This Bill seeks to embed controversial gender ideology throughout the New South Wales statute book that will only frustrate the proper operation of the law and significantly undermine human rights in NSW.5. Most alarmingly, the Bill will expose children to controversial gender ideology, removing the caring influence of parents on the decisions of
- [Faith Leaders' Response to NSW Conversion Practices Consultation Paper 2033](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/faith-leaders-response-to-nsw-conversion-practices-consultation-paper-2033/) - Excerpt: 1.The purpose of this document is to provide a collective response from the faith leaders listedbelow to the Banning of Conversion Practice Consultation Paper released by the Departmentsof Communities and Justice and Health (Departments) of the New South Wales Governmentdated 31 July 2023 (Consultation Paper). 2. We consider the timeframe allotted for this consultation
- [Submission on Civil Anti-Vilification and Harms-Based Speech VIC](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-on-civil-anti-vilification-and-harms-based-speech-vic/) - Excerpt: 3. Freedom for Faith agrees with and endorses the submission made today by the Institute for Civil Society. 4. In particular, we support the view that a “hate speech” law (as opposed to existing vilification laws) sets a bad precedent for free speech on controversial topics, including on matters as to which citizens of
- [Submission on QLD Anti-Discrimination Bill 2024](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-on-qld-anti-discrimination-bill-2024/) - Executive Summary The proposed changes to the Queensland Anti-Discrimination Act seek to narrow religious exceptions evenfurther, which is concerning for many religious organizations. These changes are the most restrictive regimefor regulating religious bodies in Australia and will significantly undermine the ability of religiousorganizations to employ persons in accordance with their faith. The proposed ‘reasonable and
- [Submission to the Religious Discrimination Draft Bill 2019](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/fff-submission-to-the-religious-freedom-bill-2019/) - Freedom for Faith welcomes the considerable efforts that the Government has made to consult on the drafting of this Bill. Many features of it are very good, including general provisions for protection of people of faith from discrimination in Commonwealth law; but Freedom for Faith also has significant concerns about certain provisions which have consequences
- [Second Submission to the Religious Discrimination Bill Exposure Draft](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/second-submission-to-the-religious-discrimination-bill-exposure-draft-2/) - Freedom for Faith welcomes the considerable efforts that the Government has made to consult on the drafting of this Bill, including responding to the concerns of many churches and other faith communities by putting out a second exposure draft. The second exposure draft is a great improvement on the first. While it is much better,
- [Submission on Anti-Discrimination Amendment (Complaint Handling) Bill 2020](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-on-anti-discrimination-amendment-complaint-handling-bill-2020/) - 1. On 27 February 2020 the Hon Mark Latham MLC introduced the Anti- Discrimination Amendment (Complaint Handling) Bill 2020 into the NSW Legislative Council. The Bill was then referred to the Council’s Portfolio Committee No. 5 for inquiry and report. Submissions close on 26 April 2020. This is the submission of Freedom for Faith. 2.
- [Submission on Anti-Discrimination Amendment (Religious Freedoms and Equality) Bill 2020](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-on-anti-discrimination-amendment-religious-freedoms-and-equality-bill-2020/) - This submission was written by Dr Alex Deagon, Senior Lecturer in Law at the Queensland University of Technology, who assisted in a private capacity. The views expressed in the submission are his own and do not necessarily reflect the view of his employer. Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to
- [New College Lecture on Religious Freedom](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/patrick-parkinson-new-college-lecture-on-religious-freedom/)
- [Queensland Election 2020 - Religious Freedom Policies Table](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/queensland-election-2020-religious-freedom-policies-table/) - To help you make an informed vote at the 2020 Queensland Election, Freedom for Faith have asked a series of religious freedom policy questions of each political party. The table below compiles the responses from the Australian Labor Party and the Australian Greens. The Liberal National Party failed to provide a response to this survey.
- [Transgressing the 'Gospel of Work'](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/transgressing-the-gospel-of-work/) - When it comes to helping their parishioners navigate the increasingly complex secular workplace Christian ministers are playing catch-up. Simply put, churches have neglected the largest time portion of their parishioners’ lives for too long, failing to realise that alternate “sacred spaces” are shaping identities as much, if not more, than church has been. And with
- [Religious Freedom Needs To Be Strengthened And Protected](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/religious-freedom-needs-to-be-strengthened-and-protected/) - Religious freedom is the canary in the coal mine of Australian free-speech and viewpoint diversity – it provides a good barometer for the health of other rights and freedoms in a democratic society. Australia should be a nation where every citizen, regardless of faith, philosophy or creed can speak openly about what they believe and
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Vic Alhadeff](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-vic-alhadeff/) - Vic Alhadeff is the CEO of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies
- [Labor Government in Victoria Makes Prayer A Criminal Offence](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/labor-government-in-victoria-makes-prayer-a-criminal-offence/) - In the most aggressive action ever taken by an Australian government to attack freedom of religion, the Labor Government in Victoria proposes to make it a criminal offence, punishable by several years' imprisonment, for a person to pray with another person about issues they are having concerning their sexual orientation or gender identity. It will not
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Dr. Joel Harrison](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-dr-joel-harrison/) - Dr. Joel Harrison is Senior Lecturer of Law at the University of Sydney
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Senator Amanda Stoker](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-senator-amanda-stoker/) - Amanda Stoker is a Federal Senator for the State of Queensland
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Professor Carl Trueman](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-professor-carl-trueman/) - Carl Trueman is Professor of Biblical and Religious studies at Grove City College, Pennsylvania. We discuss his new book, ‘The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self: Cultural Amnesia, Expressive Individualism, and the Road to Sexual Revolution’.
- [Victoria’s Conversion Practices Bill is as bad as they say it is](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/victorias-conversion-practices-bill-is-as-bad-as-they-say-it-is/) - Many commentators concerned with free speech and religious freedom have expressed serious concerns about the Change or Suppression (Conversion) Practices Prohibition Bill 2020 (Vic), now awaiting its second reading debate in the Victorian Legislative Council (which could resume on February 2, having swiftly passed all stages in the Legislative Assembly on 10 December 2020). Others
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Stephen McAlpine](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-stephen-mcalpine/) - Stephen McAlpine is a blogger and ex-journalist writing on issues of theology, culture and the church. He works at City Bible Forum, developing evangelistic material for a project called Third Space. His new book is 'Being the Bad Guys: How to live for Jesus in a world that says you shouldn't'.
- [Submission to the Children’s Guardian Amendment (Child Safe Scheme) Bill 2021 Consultation](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/childrens-guardian-amendment-child-safe-scheme-bill-2021/) - Submission from Freedom for Faith January 2021 About Freedom for Faith Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. It is led by people drawn from a range of denominational churches including the Australian Christian Churches, Australian Baptist Churches, the Presbyterian Church of
- [Submission to Tasmanian Law Reform Commission - Conversion Practices Consultation](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-tasmanian-law-reform-commission-conversion-practices/) - About Freedom for Faith Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. It is led by people drawn from a range of denominational churches including the Australian Christian Churches, Australian Baptist Churches, the Presbyterian Church of Australia, the Seventh-Day Adventist Church
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Archbishop Glenn Davies](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-archbishop-glenn-davies/) - On this episode we speak with Archbishop Glenn Davies, who has been the Archbishop of Sydney since his election in 2013. He has completed studies at Westminster Theological Seminary and Moore Theological College, receiving his PhD from Sheffield University in England. He was lecturer in both Old and New Testaments at Moore College, as well
- [Conversion Therapy Laws: Standing With Jesus Against Injustice](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/conversion-therapy-laws-standing-with-jesus-against-injustice/) - Two recent posts in Eternity about the Victorian Conversion Therapy Bill show contrasting reactions to its passing. The first reported on a message that Presbyterian Moderator-General, Dr Peter Barnes, sent to churches. He emphasised the need to obey God rather than people when the two are in irreconcilable conflict. Nathan Campbell, a Presbyterian pastor in Brisbane, writing together with celibate gay
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Rod Dreher](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-rod-dreher/) - Rod Dreher is an author, blogger and senior editor at The American Conservative. He has written several books, including How Dante Can Save your life, The Benedict Option and the recently released Live Not By Lies.
- [Submission to Treasury - Proposed Amendment to Governance Standard 3](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-treasury-proposed-amendment-to-governance-standard-3/) - About Freedom for Faith Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. It is led by people drawn from a range of denominational churches including the Australian Christian Churches, Australian Baptist Churches, the Presbyterian Church of Australia, the Seventh-day Adventist Church in
- [Education Legislation Amendment (Parental Rights) Bill 2020 Submission](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/education-legislation-amendment-parental-rights-bill-2020-submission/) - About Freedom for Faith Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. It is led by people drawn from a range of denominational churches including the Australian Christian Churches, Australian Baptist Churches, the Presbyterian Church of Australia, the Seventh-day Adventist Church in
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Professor Nick Aroney](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-professor-nick-aroney/) - Nicholas Aroney is Professor of Constitutional Law at The University of Queensland. Professor Aroney has held visiting positions at Oxford, Cambridge, Paris, Edinburgh, Durham, Sydney, Emory and Tilburg universities. He has published over 100 journal articles, book chapters and books in the fields of constitutional law, comparative constitutional law and legal theory. In 2017 he
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Professor Andrew T Walker](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-professor-andrew-t-walker/) - Andrew T. Walker is Associate Professor of Christian Ethics at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. An Associate Dean in the School of Theology, he is also the Executive Director of the Carl F. H. Henry Institute for Evangelical Engagement. His new book is entitled 'Liberty For All – Defending Everyone’s Religious Freedom In A Pluralistic
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Senator Deborah O'Neill](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-senator-deborah-oneill/) - Deborah O'Neill has been Senator for New South Wales since 2013. A member of the Australian Labor Party, she is passionate about ensuring all Australian men and women, regardless of their circumstances have access to secure work, income, and a world-class health and education system.
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Pastor Nathan Campbell](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-pastor-nathan-campbell/) - Nathan Campbell is an ordained Minister in the Presbyterian Church. A journalism graduate, and Public Relations professional in his previous professional life, Nathan occasionally writes for a variety of publications including Soul Tread, Eternity News, Zadok Perspectives, and The Gospel Coalition, but more frequently publishes pieces about the intersection between Christianity and culture on his
- [Tasmanian Election 2021 - Religious Freedom Policies Table](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/tasmania-election-2021-religious-freedom-policies-table/) - To help you make an informed vote at the 2021 Tasmanian Election, Freedom for Faith have asked a series of religious freedom policy questions of each political party. The table below compiles the responses from the Liberal Party and the Australian Greens. The Australian Labor Party failed to provide a response to this survey. Ensure
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Dr Preston Sprinkle](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-dr-preston-sprinkle/) - Dr. Preston Sprinkle is President of the Center for Faith, Sexuality and Gender, and a New York Times best-selling author. His latest book is Embodied: Transgender Identities, The Church And What the Bible Has To Say.
- [Scott Morrison's interventionist God](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/scott-morrisons-interventionist-god/) - I don't believe in an interventionist God But I know, darling, that you do But if I did, I would kneel down and ask Him Not to intervene when it came to you Oh, not to touch a hair on your head Leave you as you are If he felt he had to direct you
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Dr Ryan T Anderson](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-dr-ryan-t-anderson/) - Dr. Ryan T. Anderson is the President of the Ethics and Public Policy Center in Washington DC. He has authored several books, including Truth Overruled: The Future of Marriage and Religious Freedom, and is the founding editor of Public Discourse, the online journal of the Witherspoon institute.
- [Religious freedom and knives in school](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/religious-freedom-and-knives-in-school/) - A debate over the extent of religious freedom laws has arisen in NSW after an incident at a school where one student was stabbed by another, who was wielding a “kirpan”, a religious symbol in the form of a dagger worn by Sikhs. Politicians have expressed surprise that knives are allowed at schools at all, and there
- [Second Submission on NSW Child Safe Amendment](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/second-submission-on-nsw-child-safe-amendment/) - Children’s Guardian Amendment (Child Safe Scheme) Bill 2021 Submission from Freedom for Faith Freedom for Faith provided detailed comments in January 2021 on an Exposure Draft of the above Bill when it was first circulated. We are grateful that the Government has taken into account our comments, and the comments of others, in reshaping the
- [Religious Freedom Weekend - June 11-13](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/religious-freedom-weekend-june-11-13/)
- [Dodging The Bullet](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/dodging-the-bullet-2/) - It seems like just yesterday that Christian organisations in Australia dodged a bullet that had their names on it. Just a few years ago BC (Before COVID) we had a Federal Election which was purportedly a shoo-in for the Australian Labor Party. The ALP was so confident that it would win, that not only was
- [Submission to the Legal Affairs and Safety Committee Inquiry into Serious Vilification and Hate Crimes](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-the-legal-affairs-and-safety-committee-inquiry-into-serious-vilification-and-hate-crimes/) - About Freedom for Faith Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. It is led by people drawn from a range of denominational churches including the Australian Christian Churches, Australian Baptist Churches, the Presbyterian Church of Australia, the Seventh-day Adventist Church
- [Strange Bedfellows for Freedom](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/strange-bedfellows-for-freedom/) - What do the recent travails of the Australian Christian Lobby in Western Australia have in common with the equally recent travails of the Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Alliance in Tasmania? On the surface not a lot, it would seem. There appears to be a Tertullianian divide between Athens and Jerusalem here, not merely a geographical
- [Could Apple be a Threat to Religious Freedom?](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/could-apple-be-a-threat-to-religious-freedom/) - That is not a headline I ever thought I would need to write; but times are changing rapidly, and as Christians we need to keep up with the changes. We should be aware of issues and threats which for now, might be in the distant horizon. That way, we can do something about them, in
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Alex Ryvchin](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-alex-ryvchin/) - Alex Ryvchin is an Australian author, advocate, media commentator and lawyer. He is currently the co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, and is the author of several books including the recent work Zionism: The Concise History.
- [Weddings and Kirpans- indirect religious discrimination in NSW](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/weddings-and-kirpans-indirect-religious-discrimination-in-nsw/) - While Sikh weddings will often feature the symbolic dagger known as the “kirpan”, that is not the connection I am writing about. In NSW at the moment both weddings in general, and kirpans worn by school students, have featured in debates about religious freedom. For weddings, those committed to religious beliefs are deeply concerned that all weddings
- [Talking Freely - Dr John Dickson](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-dr-john-dickson/) - Dr John Dickson started out as a singer-songwriter, now working as an author, academic, and media presenter. In 2007 he co-founded the Centre for Public Christianity, and has published 18 books and three TV documentaries. His latest book is entitled Bullies and Saints: an honest look at the good and evil of Christian history.
- [Media Release - Proposed Victorian legislation proves urgency of federal religious discrimination bill](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/media-release-proposed-victorian-legislation-proves-urgency-of-federal-religious-discrimination-bill/) - The Victorian Government has announced sweeping new reforms to the employment rights of religious institutions. Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes will introduce legislation in the coming months to remove crucial religious freedom protections. “We hope the Andrews Government honours the multi-cultural diversity of Victoria and seeks to uphold the human rights of all citizens. Institutions established for
- [Victorian proposals to further limit religious freedom rights](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/victorian-proposals-to-further-limit-religious-freedom-rights/) - The Victorian government has recently announced proposals to further limit important protections for religious freedom currently applicable to religious persons, bodies and schools in that State. The recent proposals have been put forward as dealing with the problem of religious schools sacking gay teachers, or expelling gay students: see this comment from The Age: “Religious schools
- [Talking Freely - Dr Anne Aly](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-dr-anne-aly/) - Dr Anne Aly is a Federal Member of Parliament in Western Australia for the Australian Labor Party. She worked as a professor, academic and practitioner in counter terrorism and countering violent extremism. She was a 2016 nominee for Australian of the Year and a 2016 recipient of the prestigious Australian Security Medal. In 2021, she
- [Victorian Religious Exceptions Amendment Bill introduced](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/victorian-religious-exceptions-amendment-bill-introduced/) - As previously foreshadowed (see my analysis of the proposals when first announced here) the Victorian government has introduced a Bill into the Parliament of that State seriously limiting the religious freedom of religious bodies and individual Victorian citizens. The Equal Opportunity (Religious Exceptions) Amendment Bill 2021(Vic) was introduced into the Legislative Assembly on October 27
- [The Religious Discrimination Bill arrives](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/the-religious-discrimination-bill-arrives/) - After a long wait, the Federal government has released the text of the Religious Discrimination Bill 2021 which is about to be introduced into the Parliament. There has been no general Federal law dealing with detrimental treatment of Australians on the basis of their religious faith and activities, and this is a welcome development, implementing
- [Expelling students from religious schools based on sexual orientation?](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/expelling-students-from-religious-schools-based-on-sexual-orientation/) - Current press reports suggest that the Federal Government is contemplating a change to the provisions of the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 which allow religious schools to operate in accordance with their religious commitments, in the area of decisions about students. This is being proposed to allay fears that the recently introduced Religious Discrimination Bill will
- [Government amendments to Religious Discrimination bills](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/government-amendments-to-religious-discrimination-bills/) - Debate in the House of Representatives in the Federal Parliament resumed today on the package of bills dealing with religious discrimination. (For general background, see my initial post on the bills here, and recent update on committee reports, here.) The second reading debate continues on Wednesday, I think, but the government has now released two
- [Multi-Faith Perspectives | Religious Discrimination Bill](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/multi-faith-perspectives-religious-discrimination-bill/) - “There has been an aggressive re-definition of what it means to be ‘secular’. ‘Secular’ now means to the exclusion of the religious.” Christian, Jewish and Muslim voices on why the Religious Discrimination Bill must be passed in its own right, regardless of who governs after Election Day on May 21.
- [Multi-Faith Perspectives | Religious Persecution](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/multi-faith-perspectives-religious-persecution/) - “To say that you have to cower and be secretive and hide in order to live a life of faith—that’s what we’re used to from Soviet Russia, contemporary China. That’s not the way we should be living in a Western liberal democracy. ” Religious Persecution is on the rise in Australia.
- [ACT Discrimination Law Reforms Narrow Religious Freedom](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/act-discrimination-law-reforms-narrow-religious-freedom/) - The Australian Capital Territory government has released an Exposure Draft of a Bill to amend that jurisdiction’s Discrimination Act 1991 (“DA”). They have invited public comment by 1 July 2022. As key protections for religious freedom in Australia are often found in “balancing clauses” in discrimination legislation, it is always worth keeping an eye on
- [Media Release - The Compelling Need for a Federal Religious Discrimination Act](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/media-release-the-compelling-need-for-a-federal-religious-discrimination-act/) - A Statement from Bishop Michael Stead, Chair of Freedom for Faith All Australians should be deeply shocked at the discriminatory treatment of Andrew Thorburn. According to press reports Thorburn has been forced to resign one day after being appointed as the CEO of the Essendon Football Club on the basis of the mainstream religious beliefs
- [ALP Platform 2023](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/alp-platform/) - The Australian Labor Party has released a draft platform for comment by Party members. You can read the full platform and submit responses here The deadine for submissions is June 23rd. The most significant sections on religious freedom are listed below. As a whole, this platform is an improvement on the previous platform - which
- [Being Antigone - Part 2](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/being-antigone-part-2/) - Rev. Dr. Mike Ovey of Oak Hill College in the UK addresses the Freedom16 Conference in Sydney in August 2016.
- [Being Antigone - Part 1](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/being-antigone-part-1/) - Rev. Dr. Mike Ovey of Oak Hill College in the UK addresses Freedom16 Conference in Sydney in August 2016
- [Rev. Dr. Mike Ovey's address at the Freedom16 Conference dinner 12 August 2016](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/rev-dr-mike-oveys-address-at-the-freedom16-conference-dinner-12-august-2016/) - Mike Ovey of Oak Hill College addressed the Freedom16 Conference in Sydney in August 2016. Read his address here or listen to him speaking here.
- [Candidate forums](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/candidate-forums/) - Freedom for Faith is resourcing churches to host candidate forums in the Queensland, NT, WA and Federal elections. If you are interested in being involved, please contact us on info@freedomforfaith.org.au A candidate forum is an event held a few weeks before an election where the main candidates for a specific electorate are invited to speak
- [Religious Discrimination Bill Update](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/fed-rdb/) - On Friday April 12, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met with a number of faith leaders, including members of the Freedom for Faith board, to discuss the Religious Discrimination Bill and related legislative changes, including changes to the Sex Discrimination Act for faith-based schools. This meeting was very positive, with the PM saying that religious freedom
- [Federal ALRC Report Released](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/fed-rdb-alrc/) - On Thursday 21 March, the Attorney General, Mark Dreyfus tabled the final Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) Report following their Inquiry into Religious Educational Institutions and Anti-Discrimination Laws (see below). On Tuesday 19 March, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was reported saying that he would not act on the ALRC report or a Religious Discrimination Bill without bipartisan
- ["Equality" Bill Survey Guide](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/equality-bill-survey-guide/) - The NSW Parliament has released a survey asking your views of Alex Greenwich’s “Equality” Bill. The majority of the survey asks you your view on a series of amendments made by the bill, however, the survey does not explain what the amendments do. This guide gives you a simple explanation of the amendments. We either
- [NSW "Conversion Practices" - Concerns](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nsw-conversion-practices-concerns/) - On March 22, 2024, the NSW Parliament passed the Conversion Practices Ban Act. This bill contains a number of exemptions in the definition of "conversion practices" that protect elements of religious speech and prayer, parental guidance and medical practitioners. However, at several points the Bill remains unclear. The combined faith leaders of NSW requested four
- [NSW "Conversion Practices" - History](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/nsw-conversion-practices-history/) - On March 22, 2024, the NSW Parliament passed the Conversion Practices Ban Act. History of the bill 2023 NSW Election In the lead up to the 2023 NSW election, independent MP Alex Greenwich declared that a condition of his support for any new Government would be a ban on "conversion therapy". Mr Greenwich also set
- [Case Study: Candidate Forums](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/case-study-candidate-forums/) - A candidate forum is an event, held a few weeks before an election, where the main candidates for an electorate are invited to speak to the Christians in that electorate and answer their questions. Candidate forums are a central part of the Freedom for Faith strategy to help churches be more effective in political engagement.
- [A Human Rights Charter for Australia - Part 2](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/human-rights-charter-part-2/) - This is part 2 of a 2-part series from Dr Paul Taylor. See part 1 here. Dr Paul Taylor is an Honorary Senior Lecturer in the T.C. Beirne School of Law, a Fellow of the Centre for Public, International and Comparative Law, and an Adjunct Professor at the School of Law, The University of Notre
- [A Human Rights Charter for Australia - Part 1](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/human-rights-charter-part-1/) - This is part 1 of a 2-part series from Dr Paul Taylor. See part 2 here. Dr Paul Taylor is an Honorary Senior Lecturer in the T.C. Beirne School of Law, a Fellow of the Centre for Public, International and Comparative Law, and an Adjunct Professor at the School of Law, The University of Notre
- [Removing fences: the ALRC Consultation Paper on Religious Educational Institutions and Discrimination Laws](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/alrc1-removing-fences/) - The Australian Law Reform Commission has now released a Consultation Paper for its current reference on “Religious Educational Institutions and Anti-Discrimination Laws”. The paper, while formally acknowledging the importance of religious freedom and parental rights, will be a serious disappointment to those involved in religious schools and colleges. It effectively recommends the removal of protections enjoyed by religious educational institutions which have been designed to safeguard the ability of these organisations to operate in accordance with their religious beliefs.
- [Submission on Serious Racial Vilification](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-on-serious-racial-vilification/) - The reason for this brief submission is to draw attention to the lack of clarity in the current text of section 20D and some of the problems that may arise in seeking to clarify the existing law, drawing upon the experience of other jurisdictions.
- [Submission on Sex Discrimination Amendment (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Intersex Status)](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-on-sex-discrimination-amendment-sexual-orientation-gender-identity-and-intersex-status/) - Introduction Freedom 4 Faith (F4F) is an organisation that was formed to educate the Christian church and wider public on issues relating to freedom of religion in Australia. F4F’s leadership team includes senior Christian leaders from the Anglican, Baptist, Pentecostal, Presbyterian and Seventh-day Adventist traditions, as well as legal experts. The purpose of this brief
- [Multi-Faith Perspectives | Religious Institutions & Schools](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/multi-faith-perspectives-religious-institutions-and-schools/) - “The law itself is discriminatory in that it actually discriminates against religious organisations exclusively.” There is a growing State overreach into the freedom of religious institutions and schools.
- [Mark Spencer Freedom22](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/mark-spencer-freedom22/) - Mark Spencer, Director of Policy for Christian Schools Australia, presents 'Is there room for faith in Australia’s future education system?' at the Freedom22 Conference.
- [Stephen McAlpine Freedom22](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/stephen-mcalpine-freedom22/) - Stephen McAlpine, pastor, blogger and ex-journalist, shares an engaging talk entitled, 'Everyone’s Got a Plan (Until They Get a Punch in the Mouth)' at the Freedom22 Conference.
- [Mark Sneddon Freedom22](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/mark-sneddon-freedom22/) - Mark Sneddon, Executive Director of the Institute for Civil Society, presents 'Banning SOGI Change or Suppression Practices – a critique', at the Freedom22 Conference.
- [Dr Sarah Irving-Stonebraker Freedom22](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/dr-sarah-irving-stonebraker-freedom22/) - Dr Sarah Irving-Stonebraker presents on 'The History of Religious Freedom and its Implications for the Current Debate' at the Freedom22 Conference.
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Greg Sheridan](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-greg-sheridan/) - Greg Sheridan is an Australian foreign affairs journalist, author and commentator. He has written a number of books on politics, religion and international affairs and has been the foreign editor of The Australian newspaper since 1992. His latest book is 'Christians: the urgent case for Jesus in our World.'
- [Talking Freely - Martyn Iles](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talkingfreelymartyniles/) - Martyn Iles is the Managing Director of the Australian Christian Lobby. He is also the host of "The Truth of it", a successful program that examines various social issues through a Christian lens.
- [How Do We Now Understand Freedom?](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/how-do-we-now-understand-freedom/) - Transcript of the Hon. John Anderson’s talk at Freedom18 on 23 May 2018 ‘How do we now understand Freedom?’Rob, thank you very much for that kind introduction. It's great to be with you. I acknowledge Paul Green, Michael Kellahan, Senator Jacinta Collins, and I'm sure there are numerous others, but if I could say ‘friends,
- [Senator Amanda Stoker addresses Freedom19](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/senator-amanda-stoker-addresses-freedom19/)
- [Of Shields & Swords - Let The Jousting Begin!](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom19-conference-of-shields-by-justice-sarah-derrington/) - Download a PDF copy of Justice Derrington's speech given at the Freedom19 Conference on Wednesday 4 September 2019
- [What Happens After The Last Christian?: Australia, Secularisation and God.](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/what-happens-after-the-last-christian-australia-secularisation-and-god/)
- [Religious Discrimination and Religious Freedom](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom19-conference-religious-discrimination-and-religious-freedom-a-speech-given-by-prof-nicholas-aroney/) - Prof. Nicholas Aroney addressed the Freedom19 conference on Wednesday 4 September 2019. Read a PDF copy of his talk. Listen to the audio of the speech here. View his Powerpoint presentation. Read Prof. Nicholas Aroney's article in the Australian Law Journal "Can Australian Law Better Protect Freedom of Religion?"
- [Protecting Freedom of Religion and Belief in Anti-discrimination Law –
 A First Look at the Religious Discrimination Bill
](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom19-conference-protecting-freedom-of-religion-and-belief-in-anti-discrimination-law-
-a-first-look-at-the-religious-discrimination-bill
-by-adjunct-prof/) - Adjunct Professor Mark Sneddon addressed the Freedom19 conference on Wed 4 Sep 2019.
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Dr Jonathan Cole](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-dr-jonathan-cole/) - Dr Jonathan Cole is a scholar, speaker, translator, commentator, and lecturer specialising in Political Theology, which is the intersection between religion and politics. He is Assistant Director for the Centre for Public and Contextual Theology at Charles Sturt University in Canberra. He hosts the Political Animals Podcast: Honest conversations about the political and cultural ideas
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Dr Alastair Roberts](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-dr-alistair-roberts/) - Alastair Roberts works for the Theopolis and Davenant Institutes. He is an author of Echoes of Exodus: Tracing Themes of Redemption Through Scripture, and the forthcoming Heirs Together: A Theology of the Sexes. He participates in the Mere Fidelity and Theopolis podcasts and blogs at Alastair's Adversaria.
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Rev Dr Michael Jensen](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-rev-dr-michael-jensen/) - Michael Jensen is an Australian clergyman, author, and lecturer. He has served as the rector in the Anglican parish of St Mark's Church, Darling Point since 2013 and was formerly a professor of theology at Moore College, Sydney.
- [Talking Freely Podcast - Dr Rory Shiner](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/talking-freely-podcast-dr-rory-shiner/) - Dr Rory Shiner is senior pastor of Providence City Church in Perth. His research is in Evangelical History and the History of Religious Thought. He is the author of One Forever: The Transforming Power Of Being In Christ.
- [Ruddock Review Submission - Protecting Diversity](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/ruddock-review-submission-protecting-diversity/) - ABOUT FREEDOM FOR FAITH Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom protected and promoted in Australia and beyond. It is led by people drawn from a range of denominational churches including the Australian Christian Churches, Australian Baptist Church Ministries, the Presbyterian Church of Australia, the Seventh-Day Adventist
- [Livestreamed Event - Is Freedom Of Religion A Human Right?](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/livestreamed-event-is-freedom-of-religion-a-human-right/) - In our part of the world (Australia), we enjoy religious freedom. But the current debate over the Religious Discrimination Bill (now in its second draft) may bring some of that freedom into question. Our Executive Director Michael Kellahan explains the Australian cultural and political context that has made this issue so contentious, and Centre for Christian Living Director
- [Is Gender Identity a Religious Freedom Issue?](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom19-conference-is-gender-identity-a-religious-freedom-issue-by-prof-patrick-parkinson/) - Read Prof. Parkinson's paper on Gender Identity & Religious Freedom presented at the Freedom19 conference. View Prof. Parkinson's Powerpoint presentation.
- [What Happens After The Last Christian?:
 Australia, Secularisation and God](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom19-conference-what-happens-after-the-last-christian
-australia-secularisation-and-god-a-lecture-by-dr-rory-shiner/) - What Happens After The Last Christian?: Australia, Secularisation and God At some stage in history, there was a funeral at which the last active believer in Thor was buried by children who no longer shared their faith. That must have happened. And when it did, it was a momentous event in the history of Nordic
- [Can we talk publicly about Same Sex Marriage](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/can-we-talk-publicly-about-same-sex-marriage/) - Michael Kellahan addresses the Moore Centre for Christian Living on 19 October 2016.
- [Freedom amid disagreement](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom-amid-disagreement/) - Keeping religious freedom is always a constant struggle. We shouldn’t see the social reality of dierent beliefs as some impossible stalemate that forces our withdrawal from the public square. Instead, we should be asking how we should draw on our long history of finding freedom in the face of disagreement.
- [Forced silence](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/forced-silence/) - Christians talking about Jesus is confronting, but we must maintain the freedom and courage to continue speaking up, writes Michael Kellahan.
- [Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights Freedom of Speech in Australia Submission](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/parliamentary-joint-committee-on-human-rights-freedom-of-speech-in-australia-submission/) - Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights Freedom of Speech in Australia Submission of the Australian Christian Churches and Freedom for Faith, November 2016
- [Some Reflections on Law, Religious Freedom and Secularism](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/some-reflections-on-law-religious-freedom-and-secularism/) - Prof. Iain Benson addresses the Freedom16 Conference in Sydney on 12 August 2016.
- [Faithfulness Under Fire](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/faithfulness-under-fire/) - Rev. Kanishka Raffel addresses the Freedom16 Conference in Sydney.
- [Mike Ovey addresses Ministry in the UK post Same-sex Marriage](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/mike-ovey-addresses-ministry-in-the-uk-post-same-sex-marriage/) - Mike Ovey talks to Scott Sanders of Geneva Push about Ministry post Same-sex Marriage and how it has played out in the UK
- [Theological education and issues in the UK](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/theological-education-and-issues-in-the-uk/) - Mike Ovey of Oak Hill College in the UK talks with Scott Sanders of Geneva Push in Sydney about theological education and issues in the UK
- [David Ould commenting on Freedom18](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/david-ould-commenting-on-freedom18/) - David Ould attended Freedom18 in Sydney & here's what he had to say after the conference: "Hi, my name is David. I'm one of the ministers at Parramatta Anglican Cathedral. We've had a great day here at the Freedom for Faith Conference at the New South Wales State Parliament House. We've heard from politicians, not least
- [Pastoral issues arising from Same-sex attraction and the marriage debate](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/pastoral-issues-arising-from-same-sex-attraction-and-the-marriage-debate/) - Mike Ovey discusses pastoral issues with Scott Sanders of Geneva Push
- [Undazzling Equality](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/undazzling-equality/) - Prof. Iain Benson addresses Freedom for Faith Conference in Melbourne in September 2016
- [Mark Dreyfus addresses the Religious Freedom in an Age of Equality Conference.](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/mark-dreyfus-addresses-the-religious-freedom-in-an-age-of-equality-conference/) - Mark Dreyfus spoke at the Religious Freedom in an Age of Equality Conference. in Melbourne on 23 September 2016.
- [Conscience and Religion, Freedom and Respect, Due Process and Contemporary Politics](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/conscience-and-religion-freedom-and-respect-due-process-and-contemporary-politics/) - Father Frank Brennan SJ addresses the Religious Freedom in an Age of Equality Conference in Melbourne on 23 September 2016.
- [How to speak the Gospel in a more challenging environment.](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/how-to-speak-the-gospel-in-a-more-challenging-environment/) - Hear Dr. Sam Chan address the Freedom16 Conference in Sydney on 12 August 2016.
- [What Has God Joined Together? - Jesus' good message about marriage for Australia](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/what-has-god-joined-together-jesus-good-message-about-marriage-for-australia/) - Jesus' good message about marriage for Australia
- [Australia at the crossroads – how do we choose the right path?](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/australia-at-the-crossroads-how-do-we-choose-the-right-path/) - Sophie York addressed the Melbourne conference "Religious Freedom in an age of Equality" in September 2016.
- [Discrimination Law, Inherent Requirements and Values Integrity in voluntary associations](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/discrimination-law-inherent-requirements-and-values-integrity-in-voluntary-associations/) - Mark Sneddon addressed the Religious Freedom in an age of Equality conference in Melbourne in September 2016.
- [Why all political parties ought to care about religious freedom](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/prof-patrick-parkinson-why-all-political-parties-ought-to-care-about-religious-freedom/) - Managing difference means listening to the concerns of all those for whom faith is important. The three pillars of freedom of religion in relation to marriage, freedom of conscience, and freedom from discrimination offer foundations on which perhaps people of goodwill on different sides of the debate can agree.
- [Article 18 – The inconvenient right](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/sen-david-fawcett-article-18-the-inconvenient-right/) - Are human rights fundamental, or relative to culture and time? What is the role of religion in contemporary Australia’s plural secular liberal democracy and why do some people treat Article 18 of the ICCPR as an irrelevant inconvenience?
- [Protecting Religious Freedom in Australia Through Legislative Balancing Clauses](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/assoc-prof-foster-protecting-religious-freedom-in-australia-through-legislative-balancing-clauses/) - One of the key ways that religious freedom in Australia is protected today is through the use of ‘balancing clauses’ in legislation prohibiting unlawful discrimination. These clauses take into account the need to balance the free exercise of religion with the right to be free from discrimination. This paper analyses the different religious freedom balancing clauses that are used in Australia law at the moment, and those that have been proposed in relation to same sex marriage, and suggests areas for improvement.
- [Not Even in America! Fighting for Religious Freedom in Australia](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/mr-christopher-brohier-not-even-in-america-fighting-for-religious-freedom-in-australia/) - Mr. Christopher Brohier addressed the Freedom17 Conference in Canberra on Wed 14 June 2017.
- [Secular Australia? Implications for Freedom of Religion](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/rt-rev-dr-stead-secular-australia-implications-for-freedom-of-religion/) - In this address Rt Rev Dr Michael Stead explores what kind of secular country Australia has been, what it could be and should be and what implications this could have for freedom of religion.
- [Lets's Disagree, Without Being Disagreeable](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/letss-disagree-without-being-disagreeable/) - Australians must be allowed to make the case that this thing called marriage, when it has actually been practiced, has brought fantastic good to the wider society. People shouldn't be ashamed to speak up for the classical vision of it. Many are not persuaded that a legal or cultural rearrangement of marriage will bring good. Most importantly, we believe in the freedom to speak and express those beliefs.
- [William Cooper - Eddie Jaku](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/william-cooper-eddie-jaku/) - Eddie Jaku speaks at the Dreaming of Freedom - Honouring William Cooper event in Sydney on Thursday 7 September 2017.
- [William Cooper - Shane Phillips, Welcome to Country](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/william-cooper-shane-phillips-welcome-to-country/) - Shane Phillips speaks at the Dreaming of Freedom - Honouring William Cooper event in Sydney on Thursday 7 September 2017.
- [William Cooper - Stewart Levitt](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/william-cooper-stewart-levitt/) - Stewart Levitt reads a letter from William Cooper addressed to King George VI at the Dreaming of Freedom - Honouring William Cooper event in Sydney on Thursday 7 September 2017.
- [William Cooper - Abe Schwarz](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/william-cooper-abe-schwarz/) - Abe Schwarz speaks at the Dreaming of Freedom - Honouring William Cooper event in Sydney on Thursday 7 September 2017.
- [William Cooper - Shannon Foster](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/william-cooper-shannon-foster/) - Shannon Foster speaks at the Dreaming of Freedom - Honouring William Cooper event in Sydney on Thursday 7 September 2017.
- [William Cooper - Ray Finn](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/william-cooper-ray-finn/) - Ray Finn speaks at the Dreaming of Freedom - Honouring William Cooper event in Sydney on Thursday 7 September 2017.
- [Freedom of religion effects more of us than you think](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom-of-religion-effects-more-of-us-than-you-think/) - You may have ticked “no religion” in the census, and you may have ticked “yes” in the marriage postal survey, but a loss of freedom of religion can still affect you.
- [Same-Sex Marriage has resulted in predictable changes](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/same-sex-marriage-has-resulted-in-predictable-changes/) - If you are a Christian and you’re living in the West, the chances are that over the years you have read material or listened to techniques that explain how to engage with people who believe and act differently to you. But so poisoned has the debate over SSM become that I rarely if ever mention it to friends who are not Christian. I’ve started to just keep my head down.
- [Progressive Christian: Where art thou?](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/progressive-christian-where-art-thou/) - “Devoid of any serious attention to religious freedom issues.” Australia has gotten here, because by and large we are intellectually lazy. Our “she’ll be right” attitude is being exposed to the gale of social change sweeping the Western world.
- [How free should Australia be?](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/how-free-should-australia-be/) - We need to be great lovers of freedom and tolerance. That’s a message for both sides of this plebiscite debate, and one that will be needed even more in the ashes of the outcome.
- [Trinity Western’s ‘torturous’ battle for freedom](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/trinity-westerns-torturous-battle-for-freedom/) - Trinity Western University has been the epicenter of a Canadian cultural battle because of its code of conduct that every student and faculty member is to sign. At the heart of the conflict: which will prevail, freedom of religion or freedom not to be offended?
- [Same-sex marriage is not the final frontier against homophobia](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/same-sex-marriage-is-not-the-final-frontier-against-homophobia/) - Social commentator Akos Balogh provides an analysis of LGBTI advocate Benjamin Law's vision for society, one that goes much further than simply redefining marriage How might society change if Same-sex Marriage (SSM) were legalised? Well, we’ve caught a glimpse over the last few weeks. A public petition (since pulled down) was signed by 5000 people calling for the deregistration of
- [Review of NT discrimination law](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/review-of-nt-discrimination-law/) - First published on Neil Foster's blog, Law and Religion The Northern Territory government has released a discussion paper called Modernisation of the Anti-Discrimination Act (Sept 2017). It invites comments by 3 December 2017. You can almost get the tone of the paper from the title! After all, who in this fast-changing age could oppose anything called “modernisation”? But
- [Thinking Biblically about ... family](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/thinking-biblically-about-family/) - How can the Bible inform our approach to family? In the Bible, we see how God intended the extended family to be the basic unit of society, a source of lifelong economic provision and support, the foundation of welfare and the primary source of personal and religious identity. Although our lives and society are very different today, the wider family still plays a critical role both personally and publically.
- [Religious Freedom for churches after a possible “Yes” vote to same sex marriage](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/religious-freedom-for-churches-after-a-possible-yes-vote-to-same-sex-marriage/) - If the same-sex postal survey returns a majority “Yes” vote, what are things that Christian churches which are committed to a Biblical view of sex and marriage need to be thinking about? This brief paper will simply outline some issues, all of which will need careful further thought.
- [Same sex marriage will soon become law](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/same-sex-marriage-will-soon-become-law/) - The religious freedom question though is this - when the law on marriage changes what do you do with people whose beliefs about marriage do not change? Is there freedom to hold, speak and express that view to be protected or to be punished?
- [The Yes, the No and the Maybe](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/the-yes-the-no-and-the-maybe/) - Well what an interesting day in the news yesterday was, in no particular order. How many of the following did you pick? The plebiscite vote to change the definition of marriage with a roughly 60/40 split. Mugabe getting his comeuppance in Zimbabwe. The Socceroos going through to the World Cup in normal time with more than one
- [Forget the Bakers and Florists, It’s About Schools](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/forget-the-bakers-and-florists-its-about-schools/) - Apologies to those Christians who are bakers or florists (or photographers) and who are worried about their freedom of conscience when it comes to gay weddings in Australia. I do feel your pain, but the real issue, the real target, has always been the mediating institutions such as schools. And sure enough, all the talk
- [While You Were Sleeping](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/while-you-were-sleeping/) - While you were sleeping or watching Netflix last night, the Australian Government sold religious freedoms in this country down the river. But don’t worry, it didn’t cost much, because this Turnbull Government comes cheap. After all of the promises made that nothing would be changed once gay people were allowed to marry, – that we
- [Where to next for Christian Schools?](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/where-to-next-for-christian-schools/) - when a faith based school has so much government money riding on its success, and that money is being increasingly tied to sign-off on anti-discrimination legislation that does not recognise alternate moral communities and how they function, then that narrative could well move from a whisper to a conversation to a school policy in next to no time
- [How To Survive The Moral Revolution: What You Should Know](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/how-to-survive-the-moral-revolution-what-you-should-know/) - Australia is changing. From same sex marriage, to euthanasia; from gender fluidity to eroding religious freedoms: we’re experiencing seismic shifts in public morality and worldview. The Australia of today is not the same as the Australia of even five years ago. This raises a variety of challenges for Christians and churches. Challenges that we must
- [Australia Adopts Same Sex Marriage: Law and Religion Implications](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/australia-adopts-same-sex-marriage-law-and-religion-implications/) - It is to be hoped that in light of the loud claims by Parliamentarians of both sides that they support religious freedom, the term will be interpreted as broadly as possible.
- [The “monitum” and “rogue priests”](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/the-monitum-and-rogue-priests/) - With the commencement of the legislation adopting same-sex marriage for Australia today, 9 December, it seems worthwhile to note some more implications, following my initial comments on the change.
- [Is it Really the Christian Way? Yes, Actually, it is.](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/is-it-really-the-christian-way-yes-actually-it-is/) - Is it really the Christian way? That’s the question asked, no doubt, honestly and with great depth of meaning by a young gay relief teacher, Craig Campbell on the ABC last night. Mr Campbell is no longer on the relief list of a Perth faith based school after he revealed he was in a gay
- [The Slippery Slope Was A Precipice After All](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/the-slippery-slope-was-a-precipice-after-all/) - For all the talk of slippery slope arguments, when it came to it the same sex marriage decision in Australia was not a slippery slope. It was a precipice after all. And in such times we need precipitous thinkers. We need leaders in our church who are not content to wait for the cultural changes
- [Religious Freedom After Ruddock](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/religious-freedom-after-ruddock/) - With the federal election campaign just around the corner, it would be understandable if people of faith were confused about the stance the major political parties take on religious issues, particularly given the differing responses of these parties to the Ruddock Report on religious freedom, which was completed in May 2018. The expulsion "emergency" In October
- [Labor and the Coalition – Responses on Religious Freedom](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/labor-and-the-coalition-responses-on-religious-freedom/) - Freedom for Faith asked both the major parties seven key questions on religious freedom. It also sought the views of minor parties, but they chose not to respond.
- [Freedom for Faith in the Media](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom-for-faith-in-the-media/) - It’s been great to see the press interest in our submission and on religious freedom in general. As our public voice gets bigger we’ve got a growing appreciation for the challenges journalists are under. Legacy media is under-resourced and under pressure from a rapidly changing media landscape.
- [Michael Kellahan interview with TGCA](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/michael-kellahan-interview-with-tgca/) - Freedom for Faith's Executive Director Michael Kellahan recently spoke with Akos Balogh from The Gospel Coalition Australia. TGCA: Michael, what are some of the threats to Religious Freedom in Australia at the moment? Michael Kellahan: It partly depends on who you believe. We’ve just seen 16,800 submissions go to the Ruddock Inquiry into the legal protection of
- [A Christian Framework for Religious Diversity in Political Discourse](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/a-christian-framework-for-religious-diversity-in-political-discourse/) - In accordance with secular liberalism, many scholars and politicians argue excluding religious perspectives from political decision-making is the only way to guarantee genuine neutrality, freedom and equality. However, this paper argues secular liberalism is actually a non-neutral theology which violently excludes other religious perspectives. The paper attempts to apply Christian theology to liberal notions of public discourse for the purpose of redeeming and transforming that discourse. This redeemed ‘liberalism’ provides a framework for persuasion to the Good by advocating a discourse governed by the law of love. This produces genuine religious freedom which paradoxically transcends and ful ls the liberal ideals that secular liberalism proclaims but can never attain.
- [What is Religious Liberty For?](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/what-is-religious-liberty-for/) - 'What is Religious Liberty For?' was recorded at the Freedom18 conference on the limits of religious freedom.
- [Building Constructive Partnerships in Politics](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/building-constructive-partnerships-in-politics/)
- [The Future of Freedom for Christian Faith in our Schools](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/the-future-of-freedom-for-christian-faith-in-our-schools/) - 'The future of freedom for Christian faith in our schools' Transcript of Michael Kellahan’s address at the CRU Teachers’ Day - May 2018 Well today, I'm not sure if you're aware, but the long-awaited report from Philip Ruddock goes to the Prime Minister to say what kind of legal protection there should be for religious
- [Submission to Inquiry on Legislative Exemptions that allow faith-based Educational Institutions](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-inquiry-on-legislative-exemptions-that-allow-faith-based-educational-institutions/) - This is Freedom for Faith's submission to the inquiry on legislative exemptions that allow faith-based educational institutions to discriminate against students, teachers and staff, submitted on 21 November 2018.
- [Religious Freedom and the Ruddock Review](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/religious-freedom-and-the-ruddock-review/) - The Prime Minister today released the Religious Freedom Review and the Government Response to that Review. The Expert Panel has produced a significant and judicious Report that will form the basis for a better understanding and protection of freedom of religion in our community. We welcome the enormous amount of work done by the Panel
- [Submission to inquiry on Sex Discrimination Amendment (Removing Discrimination Against Students) Bill](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-inquiry-on-sex-discrimination-amendment-removing-discrimination-against-studentsbill/) - This is Freedom for Faith's submission to the inquiry on Sex Discrimination Amendment (Removing Discrimination Against Students) Bill 2018
- [Religious Faith and the 2019 Federal Election](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/religious-faith-and-the-2019-federal-election/) - The Coalition’s surprising win in the 2019 will no doubt cause great soul-searching in progressive circles. Labor had for months, if not longer, simply assumed that it would form Government after the election, with support from the Greens in the Senate. Labor and Greens candidates were riding a progressive wave of support for tackling issues such as climate change and discrimination.
- [The Israel Folau case has been mishandled from the start; is it too late to make things right?](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/the-israel-folau-case-has-been-mishandled-from-the-start-is-it-too-late-to-make-things-right/) - Israel Folau and I don’t have much in common; but two things we share. The first is that we are both committed Christians within the evangelical tradition of faith. We take the Bible seriously as a book inspired by God. That helps me to understand Folau’s desire to share his beliefs ― his heart, his
- [Briefing Paper July 2019](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/briefing-paper-july-2019/) - The Government’s Plans for Freedom of Religion Legislation (July 2019) A briefing paper from Freedom for Faith The purpose of this briefing paper is to explain to ministers of religion and other religious leaders what is currently happening in terms of new legislation on religious freedom, and what will need to happen further into this
- [FFF Submission to the Inquiry on Reproductive Health Care Reform Bill 2019](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/fff-submission-to-the-inquiry-on-reproductive-health-care-reform-bill-2019/) - 13 August 2019 Committee SecretaryNSW Legislative Council Standing Committee on Social Issues NSW ParliamentSydney 2000 By email: socialissues@parliament.nsw.gov.au Dear Secretary Submission to Inquiry on Reproductive Health Care Reform Bill 2019 We are grateful to the Committee for the opportunity to provide this submission in relation to the reference to the Committee on the Reproductive
- [Submission on the Exposure Draft of the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Bill 2012](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-on-the-exposure-draft-of-the-human-rights-and-anti-discrimination-bill-2012/) - The proposed changes to the law are likely to have an adverse impact upon churches and other faith-based organisations - in particular for small not-for-profit organisations - by increasing costs.
- [Briefing Paper on Anti-Discrimination Amendment Bill 2012 (Tasmania) from Freedom 4 Faith](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/briefing-paper-on-anti-discrimination-amendment-bill-2012-tasmania-from-freedom-4-faith/) - While most of the Bill does not raise issues of concern to F4F, there are some very troubling aspects of this Bill, and we seek some deletions from the Bill so as not to limit rights such as freedom of religion, association and speech in ways that cannot be justified.
- [Submission to NSW State Opposition Discussion Paper on Religious Freedom 2012](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-nsw-state-opposition-discussion-paper-on-religious-freedom-2012/) - 1. About Freedom 4 Faith Freedom 4 Faith (F4F) is a recently incorporated association that was formed to educate the Christian church and members of the wider public on issues relating to freedom of religion and belief in Australia. The board of F4F is governed by leaders from the Anglican, Baptist, Presbyterian and Seventh-day Adventist
- [Submission on Tasmanian Reproductive Health (Access to Terminations Bill) 2013](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-on-tasmanian-reproductive-health-access-to-terminations-bill-2013/) - The purpose of this submission is to highlight aspects of the Reproductive Health (Access to Terminations) Bill 2013 that would adversely affect rights associated with religious freedom.
- [Review of the Discrimination Act 1991 (ACT) June 2014](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/review-of-the-discrimination-act-1991-act-june-2014/) - Introduction Thank you for the opportunity to make a submission into the ACT Law Reform Advisory Council (“LRAC”) review of the Discrimination Act 1991 (ACT) (“the Act”). This submission will address selected numbered questions as set out in the LRAC’s Consultation Paper. Freedom 4 Faith (“F4F”) is an organisation that was formed to educate the
- [Submission into the 2014 Australian Human Rights Commission ‘Rights and Responsibilities’ Discussion](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-into-the-2014-australian-human-rights-commission-rights-and-responsibilities-discussion/) - Religious freedom and associated rights (“the four freedoms”) are at risk of being undermined in Australian society due to a focus on other, sometimes competing rights. In light of this, there is a need to “re - balance” the rights agenda in view of recent developments, particularly the over - reach of the equality lobby.
- [Submission to the Australian Human Rights Commission re Religious Freedom Roundtable 2015](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-the-australian-human-rights-commission-re-religious-freedom-roundtable-2015/) - The main purpose of this submission is to give feedback on the list of issues and the Draft Statement of Purpose and Guiding Principles provided by the Human Rights Commissioner (herein “the Commissioner”).
- [Submission to the 2015 Review of the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/submission-to-the-2015-review-of-the-victorian-charter-of-human-rights-and-responsibilities/) - Introduction Thank you for the opportunity to take part in this review of the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities (“Charter”). Freedom 4 Faith (“F4F”) is an organisation that was formed to educate the Christian church and wider public on issues relating to freedom of religion in Australia. F4F’s leadership team includes senior leaders
- [Freedom 4 Faith’s Submission to the Australian Law Reform Commission - February 2015](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/freedom-4-faiths-submission-to-the-australian-law-reform-commission-february-2015/) - Freedom 4 Faith’s Submission to the Australian Law Reform Commission - ‘Traditional Rights and Freedoms - Encroachments by Commonwealth Laws’ 27 February 2015
- [Forced silence - A better way](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/forced-silence-a-better-way/) - We shouldn’t argue for the reverse. There is a better way.
- [Forced silence - How did we get here?](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/forced-silence-how-did-we-get-here/) - Why is religious freedom treated with such suspicion today?
- [Forced silence - Speaking up](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/forced-silence-speaking-up/) - Throughout Christian history there have been plenty of times when we’ve found ways to speak even when there has been tremendous pressure not to.
- [Religious freedom & civil disobedience - lessons from Barmen declaration](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/religious-freedom-civil-disobedience-lessons-from-barmen-declaration/) - Mike Ovey of Oak Hill College in the UK talks about religious freedom and civil disobedience
- [Euthanasia](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/euthanasia/) - Dr. Megan Best addresses the Freedom16 Conference in Sydney on the topic of euthanasia
- [Under Caesar's Sword - a documentary about how Christians respond to persecution](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/under-caesars-sword-a-documentary-about-how-christians-respond-to-persecution/) - "Under Caesar's Sword" is a joint initiative between the Center for Ethics and Culture at the University of Notre Dame, the Religious Freedom Institute, and the Religious Freedom Project at the Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs at Georgetown University. The project is funded by the Templeton Religion Trust.
- [The Noble Principle of Never Again](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/the-noble-principle-of-never-again/) - Assoc. Prof. Patrick Quirk of ACU addresses a conference in Melbourne.
- [The Risks to Children from Safe Schools](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/the-risks-to-children-from-safe-schools/) - Professor Patrick Parkinson addresses the Safe Schools program at the Religious Freedom in an Age of Equality Conference in Melbourne on 23 September 2016.
- [Won't somebody think of the children?](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/articles/wont-somebody-think-of-the-children/) - marriage has never really been just about two individuals. Although it is the most intimate and personal of unions it is also a public institution. It shapes our culture like no other. Others are involved, and foremost among them are children.

## Product categories

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## Product tags

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## Type

- [Submissions](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/type/submissions/)
- [Conferences](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/type/conferences/)
- [Podcasts](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/type/podcasts/)
- [Articles](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/type/articles/)
- [Updates](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/type/updates/)

## Category

- [Global Persecution](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/global-persecution/)
- [Marriage](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/marriage/)
- [Religious Freedom in the Workplace](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/religious-freedom-in-the-workplace/)
- [Schools & Universities](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/schools-universities/)
- [Sexual Orientation & Equality Legislation](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/sexual-orientation-equality-legislation/)
- [The Law on Religious Freedom](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/the-law-on-religious-freedom/)
- [Theology](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/theology/)
- [Conferences](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/conferences/)
- [Freedom19 Conference](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/freedom19-conference/)
- [Free speech](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/free-speech/)
- [Text](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/text/)
- [Jurisdictions](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/jurisdictions/)
- [State](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/state/)
- [National](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/national/)
- [Submissions](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/submissions/)
- [Collection](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/collection/)
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- [International](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/international/)
- [Video](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/video/)
- [Freedom16 Conference](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/freedom16-conference/)
- [Freedom 18 Conference](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/freedom18-conference/)
- [Freedom 17 Conference](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/freedom17-conference/)
- [Charities](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/charities/)
- [Family and Parental Rights](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/family-and-parental-rights/)
- [Freedom22 Conference](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/freedom22-conference/) - 3 May, 2022
- [Multiculturalism](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/multiculturalism/)
- [Discrimination and anti-discrimination](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/discrimination-and-anti-discrimination/)
- [QLD](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/qld/)
- [Federal](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/federal/)
- [Human Rights](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/human-rights/)
- [VIC](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/vic/)
- [Conversion Therapy](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/conversion-therapy/)
- [NSW](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/nsw/)
- [Gender Ideology](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/gender-ideology/)
- [Costs Protection](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/costs-protection/)
- [ACT](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/act/)
- [WA](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/wa/)
- [SA](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/sa/)
- [Freedom24 Conference](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/freedom24-conference/)
- [Misinformation](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/misinformation/)
- [Analysis](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/analysis/)
- [Freedom23 Conference](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/freedom23-conference/)
- [NT](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/nt/)
- [Voluntary Assisted Dying](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/category/voluntary-assisted-dying/)

## Author

- [Freedom for Faith](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/freedom-for-faith/) - Freedom for Faith is a Christian legal think tank that exists to see religious freedom protected and promoted in Australia.
- [Senator Amanda Stoker](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/senator-amanda-stoker/) - Amanda Stoker has represented the State of Queensland in the Federal Senate since 2018. Senator Stoker arrived in politics after a career in the legal profession, commencing her employment at Minter Ellison. Becoming a Barrister, she practiced commercial law, administrative law and corporate crime. She has been a member of the Liberal Party since the age of 19, and is motivated by the desire to see Australia return to a country of opportunity based on centre-right values.
- [Mark Sneddon](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/adjunct-prof-mark-sneddon/) - Mark Sneddon is the Executive Director of the Institute for Civil Society. He is a lawyer with a longstanding interest in promoting the freedoms of expression, conscience, association, and religion in our society, as well as seeking to encourage a civil discussion and debate on these liberties and their relation to public policy.
- [Professor Patrick Parkinson](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/prof-patrick-parkinson/) - Patrick Parkinson is a Professor at the TC Beirne School of Law. Professor Parkinson was Dean of Law at the TC Beirne School of Law from 2018 – 2021. He is a specialist in family law, child protection, law and religion and the law of equity and trusts.He was President of the International Society of Family Law from 2011-14. Professor Parkinson is also well-known for his community work concerning child protection. He has been a member of the NSW Child Protection Council, and was Chairperson of a major review of the state law concerning child protection which led to the enactment of the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998.
- [Professor Nicholas Aroney](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/prof-nicholas-aroney/) - Nicholas Aroney is Professor of Constitutional Law at The University of Queensland. He has held visiting positions at Oxford, Cambridge, Paris, Edinburgh, Durham, Sydney, Emory and Tilburg universities. Professor Aroney has published over 100 journal articles, book chapters and books in the fields of constitutional law, comparative constitutional law and legal theory. In 2017 he was appointed by the Australian Prime Minister to an Expert Panel to advise on whether Australian law adequately protects the human right to freedom of religion.
- [Justice Sarah Derrington](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/justice-sarah-derrington/) - Justice Sarah Derrington is the President of the Australian Law Reform Commission. Prior to her appointment to the Federal Court, Justice Derrington was the Dean of Law at the University of Queensland and a barrister specialised in maritime and shipping law, general commercial law and arbitration.
- [Dr. Rory Shiner](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/dr-rory-shiner/) - Rory Shiner studied Arts at the University of Western Australia and theology at Moore College in Sydney. His PhD is on the life and work of Donald Robinson. He is senior pastor of Providence City Church in Perth, where he lives with his wife, Susan, and their four boys. He has written books on Union with Christ and on the relationship between Jesus’ resurrection and our own.
- [The Honourable John Anderson](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/hon-john-anderson/) - John Anderson is a sixth-generation farmer and grazier from New South Wales, who spent 19 years from 1989 in the Australian Parliament. He served as a senior Cabinet minister in the reformist government led by John Howard (1996 to 2005), one of the most successful governments in Australian parliamentary history. This included six years as Leader of the National Party and Deputy Prime Minister.
- [Dr Alex Deagon](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/dr-alex-deagon/) - Dr Alex Deagon is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Law, Queensland University of Technology. His research focuses on jurisprudence, law and theology, and freedom of religion.
- [Dr. Joel Harrison](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/dr-joel-harrison/) - Dr. Joel Harrison specialises in constitutional law and public law. His research focuses on constitutionalism, religious liberty, and human rights norms, with a particular emphasis on the relationship of these to theological ideas, questions, and history. He is the author of Post-Liberal Religious Liberty: Forming Communities of Charity.
- [Senator Jacinta Collins](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/sen-jacinta-collins/) - Jacinta Mary Ann Collins is a former Australian politician who served as a Senator for Victoria from 1995 to 2005 and again from 2008 to 2019. She represented the Australian Labor Party and was the party’s deputy leader in the Senate from June to October 2013.
- [Stephen McAlpine](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/steve-mcalpine/) - Stephen is a pastor, blogger and ex-journalist who writes on issues of theology, culture and the church. He works at a national level for City Bible Forum, developing and presenting evangelistic material for a project called Third Space. He and his family reside in Perth’s eastern suburbs.
- [Michael Kellahan](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/michael-kellahan/) - Michael Kellahan began his career as a solicitor at Herbert Smith Freehills, before commencing study at Moore Theological College. After serving many years as a Minister in the Anglican Church of Sydney, he took on the role of Executive Director of Freedom For Faith.
- [Adjunct Associate Professor Barry Bussey](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/barry-bussey/) - Since July 2011, Director of Legal Affairs at Canadian Council of Christian Charities. He has been involved with charity and religious freedom issues for over 23 years. He has argued religious freedom cases at all levels of court in Canada from tribunals to the Supreme Court of Canada. He has studied theology, law, political science, and peace & conflict studies.
- [Christopher Brohier](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/mr-christopher-brohier/) - Christopher Brohier is a barrister residing in Adelaide. He is the South Australian State Director of the Australian Christian Lobby.
- [Right Reverend Dr. Michael Stead](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/rt-rev-dr-michael-stead/) - Michael Stead is an Australian Anglican bishop. Since December 2015, he has been Bishop of the Southern Region, an assistant bishop in the Diocese of Sydney. He was consecrated a bishop on 5 December 2015 by Glenn Davies, the Archbishop of Sydney. He is a Freedom for Faith Board Member.
- [Senator David Fawcett](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/sen-david-fawcett/) - David served in the Australian Defence Force for over 22 years. An Army pilot, he flew helicopters and fixed wing aircraft and was the Senior Flying Instructor at the School of Army Aviation in Queensland. Elected to the House of Representatives as the Member for Wakefield (SA) in 2004, he served in the Parliament until 2007. David continued to fly as a test pilot and ran a small business working in the Defence and Aviation sectors prior to being elected to the Senate in 2010, 2016 and again in 2019. In the 45th Parliament, David was sworn as the Assistant Minister for Defence. David is currently the Chair of the Parliamentary Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade, Chair of the Senate Standing Legislation Committee on Environment and Communications, and member of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security.
- [Associate Professor Neil Foster](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/assoc-prof-neil-foster/) - Neil Foster is an Associate Professor in Newcastle Law School at the University of Newcastle. He has a combined Arts/Law degree from the University of NSW, a degree in Theology from the Australian College of Theology, and a research Master of Laws degree from the University of Newcastle. He teaches Torts, Workplace Health and Safety Law, and an elective in “Law and Religion”.
- [Reverend Dr. Mike Ovey](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/rev-dr-mike-ovey/) - Michael John Ovey, known as Mike Ovey, was a British Anglican clergyman, academic, and former lawyer. From 2007 until his death, he was Principal of Oak Hill College, a conservative evangelical theological college in London, England.
- [Sophie York](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/sophie-york/) - Sophie is a dedicated wife and mother of four, published author, engaging speaker, successful lawyer, university lecturer, naval officer and passionate advocate. Her honourable service to the Royal Australian Navy spans 25 years, a platform in building her leadership skills, and a rich career in the legal profession has led her from the courtroom to the lectern. Sophie is a Lecturer of Public International Law and Legal Philosophy at The University of Notre Dame, and Jurisprudence at The University of Sydney.
- [Associate Professor Patrick Quirk](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/assoc-prof-patrick-quirk/) - Patrick Quirk is Associate Professor at Australian Catholic University Melbourne Campus, and a former tenured Associate Professor and Academic Dean at Ave Maria School of Law in Naples, Florida, USA. He holds degrees in law and arts from the University of Queensland, as well as a Master of Civil Laws (Magister Legum) from the University of Tübingen, Germany, which he completed by coursework and thesis (in German). He took his PhD from the University of Adelaide. Following graduation, he was admitted to the Queensland Bar and later practised as a solicitor at a large firm in Sydney, NSW. Patrick has also taught at Bond University Law School and the Columbus School of Law at The Catholic University of America (CUA) in Washington, D.C. He teaches and writes on various commercial and civil law areas, including the U.S. Uniform Commercial Code, the law of electronic commerce, and law & religion.
- [Professor Iain Benson](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/prof-iain-benson/) - Professor Benson was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, is an academic, lecturer and practicing lawyer in constitutional law and human rights with particular focus on freedoms of association, conscience and religion, the nature of pluralism, multi-culturalism and relationships between law, religion and human rights. He was one of the drafters of the South African Charter of Religious Rights and Freedoms (signed by all major religions in that country in September 2010) and remains closely involved in advancing the Charter in that country and similar projects elsewhere. He works in English and French and divides his time between France, Canada and South Africa and now Australia. He is also a published poet.
- [The Honourable Mark Dreyfus](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/mark-dreyfus/) - Mark was elected to Parliament in 2007 as the Member for Isaacs. He studied Arts and Law at the University of Melbourne. He practised law as a solicitor and from 1987 as a barrister. In 1999 he was appointed Queen’s Counsel. A former Director of the Law Council of Australia, Mark also served on the Victorian Bar Council and the Victorian Bar Ethics Committee. Mark is a strong advocate for social justice and believes in creating a sustainable environment for our future generations.
- [Father Frank Brennan](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/frank-brennan/) - Frank Brennan is a Jesuit priest, professor of law at Australian Catholic University and Adjunct Professor at the Australian National University College of Law and National Centre for Indigenous Studies. He was the founding director of Uniya, the Australian Jesuit Social Justice Centre. He is a board member of St Vincents Health Australia. He is an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for services to Aboriginal Australians, particularly as an advocate in the areas of law, social justice and reconciliation. The National Trust classified him as a Living National Treasure at the same time that Paul Keating labelled him “the meddling priest”. In 2009, he chaired the Australian National Human Rights Consultation Committee.
- [Dr. Sam Chan](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/dr-sam-chan/) - Sam has a PhD in theology, is a medical doctor, and a karaoke buddy. He is a global citizen: Born in Hong Kong, grew up and lives in Australia, studied medicine at the University of Sydney, and did his PhD in Theology at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS), Chicago, USA. His PhD was supervised by Graham Cole. He speaks to high-schoolers and professionals, to seminary students and academics. His topics are evangelism, ethics, preaching, story-telling, and apologetics.
- [Dr. Megan Best](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/dr-megan-best/) - Dr. Megan Best has a background of clinical experience in Palliative Medicine. She has worked as a researcher with the Psycho-Oncology Co-operative Research Group (PoCoG) since 2011. Her main research focus has been existential stress at the end of life and how cancer patients cope with healthcare crises.
- [Reverend Kanishka Raffel](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/rev-kanishka-raffel/) - Kanishka was born in London to Sri Lankan parents and was raised as a Buddhist. While studying law at Sydney University a friend gave him a copy of The Gospel according to John and he subsequently became a Christian. Prior to becoming Dean in 2016, Kanishka served as Rector of St Matthew’s in Perth. He is married to Cailey and they have two daughters. Kanishka loves curry, cricket and having gelato at the beach with his family but knows no pleasure so great as sharing the news about Jesus with people who have no idea who Jesus is or how much he loves them.
- [John Steenhof](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/john-steenhof/) - John has over 15 years experience as a lawyer and started his career in a large corporate and commercial law firm. In 2015, John started Steenhof Brothers specialising in commercial law and also practicing in religious freedom litigation and advisory. John has also served on the boards of a number of charities in Western Australia and has been active in setting up residential restoration programmes. John started with Human Rights Law Alliance in 2019.
- [Akos Balogh](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/akos-balogh/) - Akos Balogh is the CEO of The Gospel Coalition Australia. He is married to Sarah, with three children. Akos was born in Budapest, and was blessed to be able to come to Australia as a refugee in 1981. He came to faith in late highschool, through the influence of friends, family, and school Scripture. He went on to study Aerospace Engineering at UNSW, before working in the RAAF for five years. After completing his B. Div. from Moore Theological college, he then had the joy of serving with AFES for six years, at Southern Cross University in Lismore.
- [Mark Spencer](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/mark-spencer/) - Mark is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, having graduated a Bachelor of Business degree with a major in accounting. He completed a Master of Labour Relations and Law degree in 1999, and a Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies. Mark is a Graduate member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and a Fellow of the Governance Institute of Australia. Mark served as Chairman of the Board of Christian Super from 2009-2015 having previously been a Trustee Director and Fund Secretary. He has also been involved in politics as a candidate, marginal seat campaign manager and party office holder.
- [Dr Sarah Irving-Stonebraker](https://freedomforfaith.org.au/library/author/dr-sarah-irving-stonebraker/) - Dr Sarah Irving-Stonebraker is Senior Lecturer in History at Western Sydney University. She was awarded her PhD in History from Cambridge University (2007). She was previously Assistant Professor at Florida State University and a Junior Research Fellow at Wolfson College, Oxford University. Her first book, Natural Science and the Origins of the British Empire, was awarded The Royal Society of Literature and Jerwood Foundation Award for Non-fiction.