Malcolm Fraser awarded honorary doctorate

21 Dec 2011
Former Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws from Melbourne Law School at the University’s final graduation ceremony for 2011.

Mr Fraser will take part in a public graduation ceremony in the University’s Wilson Hall at 6pm on Thursday 22 December, alongside other graduates from Melbourne Law School. The ceremony will also mark the official induction of the Chancellor, Professor Elizabeth Alexander.

Professor Carolyn Evans, Dean of Melbourne Law School said the Law School welcomed the honouring of Mr Fraser.

"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 include 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".

Journalists please note: Mr Fraser is available for limited s in the lead-up to the event. Please his office below for times and details.