Anne Ruston (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Families and Social Services) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The central recommendation of Mr French's review was the adoption of a model code on freedom of speech and academic freedom. As outlined in the Walker review of progress toward this goal, which was released on 9 December 2020, 23 out of the 42 had either fully implemented the code or mostly aligned, but there is more to be done by the remaining institutions. The government encourages all universities to consider Professor Walker's evaluations and take steps to respond to her recommendations. I acknowledge that the bill's definition of 'freedom of speech and academic freedom' does not seek to impinge on the beliefs and religious ethos of an institution. I thank those who have made contributions to this bill. I commend the Higher Education Support Amendment (Freedom of Speech) Bill 2020 to the Senate.

Question agreed to.

Bill read a second time.