Cory Bernardi (SA, Australian Conservatives) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I move:

That the Senate—

(a) notes that 31 October 2017 marked the 500th anniversary of the Reformation triggered by Martin Luther;

(b) also notes that, in Australia and around the world, this anniversary was commemorated, including for the first time in history by Catholics and Protestants together in joint ecumenical events;

(c) further notes the significant social, political and religious changes that occurred throughout Europe as a result of, and in response to, the Reformation;

(d) recognises the benefits to Australian students from learning more about the Reformation in the school curriculum;

(e) further recognises the significant contribution of the Reformation to the advance of literacy and freedom of thought, conscience, belief and religion; and

(f) calls upon honourable senators, the House of Representatives and the Federal Government to uphold those freedoms in their legislative deliberations.

James McGrath (Queensland, Liberal National Party, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Scott Ryan (President, Special Minister of State) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

James McGrath (Queensland, Liberal National Party, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The Reformation was a turning point in the history of Western civilisation. A key element in the revised national curriculum places a renewed emphasis on the impact and significance of Western civilisation and Australia's Judaeo-Christian heritage, values and beliefs.

Question agreed to.