The Australian Christian Lobby (ACL) has congratulated Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Labor’s emphatic election victory.
CEO Michelle Pearse says she looks forward “to working constructively with the new government on issues that matter deeply to the Christian community.”
“This election result reflects a broader mood in the country,” she reflected.
“In uncertain times, many voters opt for stability over change.”
“Others were influenced by global political trends where a perceived ‘Trump effect’ pushes voters away from conservative parties. “
WHAT WAS MISSING IN THE ELECTION CAMPAIGN
“But it also highlighted what was missing: Clear, values-based leadership builds culture,” Ms. Pearse continued.
“Instead, it may be argued that fear of losing votes led to cautious messaging and blurred convictions by many candidates and leaders across the parties.”
“Labor promised us pre-election that they would not make changes to anti-discrimination laws affecting Christian schools and institutions, unless there is bipartisan support.”
“That makes the Coalition’s stance critical in the months ahead.”
“We’ll be working to ensure schools and institutions retain the freedom to employ staff who share and model Christian beliefs — something that’s essential to their identity and mission.”
GOOD AND BAD NEWS ON RELIGIOUS FREEDOM LAWS
The ACL boss said that on the plus side: “We welcome the government’s indication that it won’t bring back the Misinformation and Disinformation Bill. This is a very positive step.”
“However, Australia still lacks legislated protections for freedom of speech and religion.”
“These are basic human rights recognised under international law, but not yet enshrined in ours, despite the Australian government agreeing to create this legislation.”
“We will continue to push for proper protections in this area.”
THE PM’S VIEWS ON RELIGIOUS DISCRIMINATION PROTECTIONS
Last term, the coalition rejected Labor’s draft of a bill to protect people of faith from discrimination.
The public never got to see it, but it’s believed the sticking point was over protecting students and staff in faith-based schools over their gender identity and sexuality.
Mr. Albanese is determined to avoid an ugly spat over “culture wars.”
He reiterated just before the election: “I maintain my position that you need broad support for legislation. We weren’t able to receive that [last term].
“This is the last time that you would want to have a divisive debate about religion.”
“I’m up for legislation that has broad support, but we do not need further issues created.”
“I’ve been about turning the temperature down on those issues, which is what social cohesion requires.”
STILL NO LEGAL PROTECTION FOR FREEDOM OF RELIGION
Michelle Pearse emphasised that means: “Australia’s current framework for protecting religious freedoms is threadbare and out of step with its international obligations under the International Covenant on Civli and Political Rights (ICCPR).”
“Despite being a signatory, our nation lacks comprehensive federal legislation that upholds and affirms the right to freedom of religion.”
Ms. Pearse cited the takeover of Calvary Hospital by the ACT Government and the forced resignation of Andrew Thorburn from the Essendon Football Club as recent examples of religious discrimination in Australia.
“Rising hostility in state legislation means that Australian Christians and institutions who hold traditional beliefs about family, marriage, and gender, now face real, daily risks simply for expressing or acting according to those views.”
GAMBLING AND YOUTH JUSTICE REFORM NEED URGENT ATTENTION
Another issue the ACL wants the government to act on, is gambling reform.
It said Labor now has the chance to act on the Murphy Inquiry recommendations, including a national regulator and a ban on all gambling advertising.
The ACL wants a review of the youth justice system when children as young as ten-years-old are being detained in juvenile prisons.
It points out many of them are indigenous and a high proportion have learning disorders.
“A national, therapeutic approach, focused on rehabilitation and long-term change, is urgently needed,” asserted the ACL.
Michelle Pearse concluded: “As Christians, we have the privilege and responsibility to bring our leaders before God, trusting that He can guide, convict, and work through them, for His purposes.”
“So, let’s continue to stand firm in truth, remain steady in hope, and lift our nation and its leaders before the Lord in prayer.”
