MARK DREYFUS MP

Antisemitism tears at the heart of our values as a nation.

It offends what it means to be Australian.

Governments, Oppositions, civil society groups, business leaders, media organisations and citizens all have a role to play.

Antisemitism cannot – must not – be weaponised in the pursuit of votes.

It must not be weaponised in the pursuit of newspaper sales or TV ratings either.

This year, we’re back in the top 10. I welcome the improvement in Australia’s ranking. It signals that our focus on integrity and anti-corruption is working.

AGD are the quiet achievers. The ones making sure that when decisions are made, they are grounded in the rule of law. That they are legally sound, and—at their best—capable of making Australia a fairer, safer, and more just country.

2024 was another big year in our fight to end modern slavery. Today, I am proud to reflect upon some of our significant achievements over the past year, and on the work we have yet to do.

In 2022 I returned to government and to the office of Attorney-General with an ambitious reform agenda.

In two and a half years, much has been achieved – but there is much more to do.

Just as international law shapes global citizens day to day, global citizens are also affected by international circumstances they cannot avoid.

The government’s reforms are designed to make this process simpler and fairer, ensuring the system operates in the best interests of all Australians.

They mark the first significant change to personal insolvency laws in many years.

Addressing the national crisis of family, domestic and sexual violence remains an ongoing priority for not just the Albanese Government, but all governments.

Two years ago, I outlined the Albanese Government’s plans for Australia’s family law system.

Two years on, we have made significant progress and are continuing to work towards our vision of a safer, simpler and fairer family law system.

Those of us engaged in the task of law reform know something of Sisyphus’ fate – the task is without end. But it is not futile. And is not without meaning.