George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

I have seen an email exchange to that effect, yes. Lest you think there is anything unusual about that, let me read you some words from the inaugural Neville Wran lecture—this is the inaugural Neville Wran lecture, established by the Australian Labor Party:

Yet unlike the British, from whom we otherwise derived so many conventions of political and civic life, Australians tend to observe a highly partisan view of their politicians, even after they have left politics. This is an infantile disorder. We need to grow out of it and acknowledge warmly those who have contributed to our public life.

That lecture, the inaugural Neville Wran lecture, was delivered on 13 November 2008 by the Hon. Michael Kirby, while a sitting High Court judge. Dyson Heydon gives the Garfield Barwick lecture, promoted by the Lawyers Branch of the Liberal Party. Michael Kirby gives the Neville Wran lecture, promoted by the Australian Labor Party. I do not think there is anything wrong with either. (Time expired)