Honorary doctorate for former PM Malcolm Fraser

Dean of the Law School Professor Carolyn Evans said the honour bestowed on Mr Fraser was very fitting.

“Without a doubt, Mr Fraser has made a substantial contribution to public life in Australia and beyond. The legal reforms instituted by the Fraser government included the passage of significant laws including the Aboriginal Land Rights Act (NT) and Australia’s first Freedom of Information Act.

“The Fraser government also established important and enduring legal institutions including the position of Commonwealth Ombudsman and the Human Rights Commission, and since leaving government, Mr Fraser has played a significant role in international affairs, particularly in the Commonwealth.”

“We have welcomed the relationship that he has developed with the Law School, particularly in the area of respect for international criminal law and the laws of war.”

Since 2004, the University of Melbourne has been designated as the official custodian of Mr Fraser’s personal papers. The collection is of historical significance and was described by the curator of the Malcolm Fraser Collection at the University of Melbourne as having “significant research potential in the areas of policy-making and government”.