And, of course, that tradition has been handed down with many connected with the Department, either as staff or students, leading the way in attempting to right social injustices. Through my direct acquaintance with your Dean, Professor Bettina Cass, who is a member of Uniya's Board, I am aware of the continuing scholarly influence she exerts on Australian welfare policy. Similarly, Professor Rees' highly innovative Centre for the Study of Peace and Conflict does honour to the Department and the University. The important thing is for you to go out into the world of professional social work and keep this tradition alive. Not all reform has to be on a large scale.
National advocacy has to be born of local action, local experience and local commitment.
The publication of Bringing Them Home, the National Inquiry into the Separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and their Families, has focussed our minds on the relationship between symbolic action such as apology and practical commitment such as reparation for past wrongs which still have ongoing adverse effects. The words are nothing unless they match desire, and the test is always in our actions and commitment. Whether we be future teachers or social workers we know that we are going to live in an Australia where the rapidly changing perspectives of the past and the uncertain present demands of justice will shape our future. I am privileged to have just returned from the fabulous Australian Reconciliation Convention. Let me offer a few reflections.