2023 Deakin Law Oration

2023 Deakin Law Oration delivered by Craig Foster AM, ‘Using the Law to Change Society: Sport, human rights and national identity’

Craig Foster AM will be delivering this year’s Oration on the topic of “Using the Law to Change Society: Sport, Human Rights and National Identity.” The emergence of international human rights law in the sporting world has challenged conventional paradigms and forced sports to confront their supposed “apolitical nature.” This has brought to light issues that were previously ignored, leading to the withdrawal of commercial partners and sponsors from various sporting events, including the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Human rights law is critical in ensuring that Indigenous peoples’ rights are upheld, including their right to self-determination, which has significant implications for Australia’s future as a republic. By utilizing the rights of affected groups, Craig will discuss how Australia can move towards a more inclusive identity. This event is open to Deakin’s wider community and is being held in support of the Victoria Law Foundation’s Law Week 2023.