Whitlam Institute
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Copy of Scott's original design

The Whitlam Institute within Western Sydney University is a public policy institute inspired by one of Australia’s most respected Prime Ministers, Gough Whitlam. It is guided by the ‘three great aims’ of the 1972 Whitlam Program: to promote equality; to involve all Australians in the decision-making processes of our land; & to liberate their talents & uplift their horizons.

 
“I do not for a moment believe that we should set limits on what we can achieve together, for our country, our people, our future.”
— Gough Whitlam, 13 November 1972
 
 
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The Whitlam Institute within Western Sydney University is a dynamic public policy institute that commemorates, and is inspired by, the life and work of the Hon Gough Whitlam AC QC.

It pursues the causes he championed and is guided by the principles upon which Gough Whitlam's parliamentary career and years of service to the people of Australia were founded.

 
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Public Policy & Research Work 

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Culture & Heritage

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Civics Education Programs

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Prime Ministerial Collection

 
 

What's happening at the Whitlam Institute? 

Join the conversation - we hold events and exhibitions throughout the year that explore and expand on our work at the Whitlam Institute.

 
Events
Spy: Espionage in Australia
Mar 8
Spy: Espionage in Australia

Open Wednesday - Friday from 10 am - 4 pm and the first Saturday of the month from 11 am - 4 pm

Often cloaked in myth, the stories of spies are sometimes stranger than fiction. Spy: Espionage in Australia reveals the personal experiences of secret agents and the curious history of espionage and counter-espionage in Australia, from Federation through to the present day.

 
Events
I Spy: Family Fun day at the Whitlam Institute
May 4
I Spy: Family Fun day at the Whitlam Institute

Attention all spy kids! You're invited to the Whitlam Institute's family fun day featuring our exhibition SPY: Espionage in Australia. This adventure includes a Spy family activity trail and special spy training activities for kids aged 5-12. Learn to experiment with invisible ink and crack the code with cipher wheels, or dress up as a spy to take a secret selfie #spy

We’re open 11am – 4pm on Saturday, 4 May and there's something for everyone throughout the day, but registrations are essential for special spy training sessions.

 

Latest Research and Publications

Guided by the legacy of Gough Whitlam, the Whitlam Institute works to ignite debate, strengthen discussion and enrich policy development in Australia.

 
 

Featured Publication

Featured Publication
Whitlam as Internationalist
Whitlam as Internationalist

The Hon Michael Kirby AC CMG reviews Whitlam’s particular interest in international law and relations. His strong emphasis on international law, and treaty law in particular, was timely, and became a signature theme of his government and life.

Read More →

Latest Research

Featured
Future of Aus Democracy
Human Rights + Technology: A Community Consultation with the Australian Human Rights Commission
Future of Aus Democracy

On Wednesday 20 March 2019, the Whitlam Institute hosted a Community Consultation on Human Rights and Technology, as part of a major review by the Australian Human Rights Commission. Human Rights Commissioner Edward Santow and Whitlam Institute Director Leanne Smith discussed the implications of emerging technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Human Rights, and the large audience shared their thoughts and questions. Watch the video here.

Future of Aus Democracy
Australia in the World
Whitlam as Internationalist
Australia in the World

The Hon Michael Kirby AC CMG reviews Whitlam’s particular interest in international law and relations. His strong emphasis on international law, and treaty law in particular, was timely, and became a signature theme of his government and life.

Australia in the World
Exhibitions
Spy: Espionage in Australia Exhibition Opening
Exhibitions

On Friday 8 March 2019, the Spy: Espionage in Australia opened to a sold-out crowd at the Whitlam Institute.

This exhibition, on tour from the National Archives of Australia, reveals the personal experiences of secret agents and the curious history of espionage and counter-espionage in Australia, from Federation through to the present day.

Exhibitions
 
 
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Support Us

There are many ways to support and contribute to the work of the Whitlam Institute, and help to continue the work of Gough Whitlam.  Donate to help us increase our impact on Australian democracy, or read and share our publications, visit us and participate in events, volunteer in our historic home, the Female Orphan School.