by Marilyn Lake
This article traces the conceptualisation of Australian women's rights over this century from protectionism to equality and beyond. Can we rise to the philosophical and political challenges and prevent sexual difference from becoming the ground for political subordination?
Mclibel: do-it-yourself justice
David Morris
Dave Morris was one of the two defendants in the recent 'McLibel' case brought by the McDonald's Corporation, which resulted in the longest trial, and one of the most controversial, in English history. In his article he explains what happened in the case from his perspective, and what it was like to be one of the defendants. He also questions the role of libel laws and the legal system, and how effective opposition to oppressive laws can develop around specific cases.
The myth of the 'supermax solution'
This article examines the policies and practices surrounding the growth of maximum-security units in Queensland prisons. The trend to use 'supermax' facilities as a political 'cure all' has been inherited from the USA and is spreading throughout Australia -- but at what cost for the rights of the prisoners concerned and for society generally? A critical perspective from the Queensland Prisoners' Legal Service.
The Kosovar and Timorese 'safe haven' refugees: A test case for democratic rights
by Michael Head
This article examines the Migration Legislation Amendment (Temporary Safe Haven Visas) Act 1999 (Cth) which introduced far-reaching provisions to extinguish the legal and democratic rights of unwanted asylum seekers. The Minister and the media presented the decision to offer a safe haven to both groups of refugees as magnanimous and humanitarian, without referring to the contents of this Act. The author argues that the legislation is part of continuing efforts by successive Commonwealth governments, both Coalition and Labor, to withdraw and restrict, if not to abolish, access to judicial review by those people classified as 'unlawful non-citizens'.
A crossroads of conscience: native title, international law, and Australia's integrity
by Henry Reynolds
This article is based on a speech given to an ANTaR ACT community seminar by Professor Henry Reynolds, on 21 October 1999. Professor Reynolds has published a number of influential works on the history of relations between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians, including Law of the Land, Aboriginal Sovereignty, and most recently Why weren't we told? In this speech, he shares his thoughts on the reconciliation movement, questions of indigenous land ownership and self-government, and international issues.
Pragmatism and law: an evolving focus in bioethics
by Philip Matthews
Bioethics began about four decades ago in an attempt to supply answers to an increasing array of moral dilemmas. Philip Matthews suggests that the first generation of Bioethics was a misguided attempt at providing objective moral certainty. He suggests that this phase of Bioethics is over and the second generation will be less concerned with solving problems than it will be with discussing them. The law will play an increasingly pragmatic role in bioethical issues.
Food and the future: labelling of foods produced using gene technology
by Clare McNamara
Public awareness and concern regarding food content and safety has increased significantly in recent years, both in Australia and internationally. The growing use of genetic manipulation in food production techniques has led to consumer demands for a 'right to know' whether particular foods contain genetically modified ingredients. This article considers these concerns in the context of the Australian and international regulatory frameworks for food labelling, and the broader trade agendas at work.
Constitutional law: where to now?
by George Williams
The Republic Referendum is analysed and options for the future are briefly canvassed including the need for an Australian Bill of Rights.
Privatisation: may the force be with you
by Bronwyn Naylor
The CitiPower case (CitiPower v Electricity Industry Ombudsman (Vic) Ltd) confirmed the power of Victoria's Energy Ombudsman to make decisions with minimal judicial interference. The author looks at this case and also more generally at the longer term accountability of privatised dispute resolution schemes.
by Bryan Keon-Cohen QC
Ron Castan AM QC died suddenly on 21 October 1999. This obituary, written by Ron's junior in the Mabo cases, traces the career of this remarkable man.
by Madeleine Spies
An interview with the current (and soon to retire) President of the Australian Council of Trade Unions. The interview covers Ms George's career, future ambitions, and current issues facing the ACTU.
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