Speeches, statements and articles by Hugh de Kretser
Read the latest speeches, statements and articles by Commission President Hugh de Kretser.
A Human Rights Vision for Rural and Regional Australia
Hugh de Kretser discusses human rights issues facing regional, rural and remote Australian communities at the July 2025 Community Legal Centres NSW Summit. Limited access to healthcare and education, the impact of climate change and disasters and justice for First Nations communities are just some of the challenges rural communities experience in Australia.
23 July 2025
Financial Counselling Australia Conference
Hugh de Kretser discusses the importance of truth telling, what he learned working at the Yoorrook Justice Commission, human rights values and the need for Human Rights Acts.
29 May 2025
Affinity Intercultural Foundation NSW Parliamentary Iftar
Hugh de Kretser discusses rising intolerance and racism and the need to respond by coming together to listen and engage in dialogue so that we can collectively forge a pathway forward towards peace and respect for each other, grounded in our human rights and common humanity. A similar speech was delivered at the Australian Intercultural Society Victorian Parliamentary Iftar.
3 March 2025
Tim McCoy Dinner
Tim McCoy Dinner: Celebrating community legal aid and social justice sectors. Honoring pioneers and ongoing efforts in human rights advocacy.
11th November 2024
Eastern Community Legal Centre Multidisciplinary Forum
Hugh de Kretser discusses the impact of multidisciplinary legal practice, highlighting the intersection of legal and social issues and the importance of integrated support.
21st October 2024
Human Rights Act for NSW
We need comprehensive human rights laws in all 9 Australian jurisdictions. A speech by Hugh de Kretser.
17th October 2024
Law Institute of Victoria Legal Sector Dinner
Our legal system frequently provides unequal access to justice, with varying standards based on one’s identity, location, and financial status. A speech by Hugh de Kretser.
29 August 2024
Melbourne Holocaust Museum Launch of "Critical Thinking is Critical”
Human rights are the key to creating the kind of society we all want to live in. The values at the heart of the work of this museum – humanity, kindness and fairness – are human rights values. A speech by Hugh de Kretser.
22 August 2024
A Human Rights Act for Australia
Human rights are the blueprint for a decent, dignified life for all. Human rights are the key to creating the kind of society we all want to live in. A speech by Hugh de Kretser.
20 August 2024
Statement by Commission President Hugh de Kretser
Commission President Hugh de Kretser has expressed concerns about calls for Palestinians fleeing Gaza to be denied entry to Australia.
19 August 2024