Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I think that is a couple of leaps in logic, Mr President. I understand the concern the senator is expressing and his interest in such matters. I also note that I am not keen for us to try to devise the curriculum in the parliament or have a repeat of some of the occurrences that occurred under the Howard government, where the Prime Minister personally took charge of writing the citizenship test and the booklet that accompanied it. I do not think that is a proper role of parliamentarians.

We have a proper process established where the Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority is seeking feedback on the draft curriculum. The RSL’s feedback will be an important part of that, as will others, and I think all of that will be taken into account. And as you know, the states then will be involved in the process of signing off. But I am advised there is no intention of diminishing the role that war memorials and commemorative events play in recognising Australia’s fallen. It is certainly the view of this government that that remains an important part of our history curriculum.