The contribution of the Whitlam government to Australia’s Post war Development
The Whitlam government contributed towards Australia’s post war development by dealing with domestic and foreign measures as well as providing ground breaking reforms that changed Australia as a country. “It’s time” was not only a slogan to Gough Whitlam as it summed up his courageous yet debatable actions towards change as Prime Minister. His contributions promoted women’s and indigenous rights, multiculturalism, Australia’s independence, educational funding and medical insurance as well as ending the remnants of the Vietnam War. Whitlam was a rare new breed of labour politicians and had succeeded in bringing Australia into the modern age.
The commitment and contribution of the Whitlam government towards Australia’s domestic measures provided equity and support during the post war development. His promotion of women’s rights, indigenous rights and multiculturalism granted equity amongst Australians. Gough Whitlam introduced Anti-Discrimination laws to provide women with equal opportunities throughout society and the work force. These laws created a less sexist atmosphere amongst citizens and also appointed an advisor of women’s affairs to assist the Prime Minister. Another action of the Whitlam government was the support of indigenous rights. The government supported the regards of land rights and handed back land to the Gurindji people, through the famous pouring of sand. Whitlam was a very open minded prime minister and he believed that multiculturalism at the time was a great asset towards the development of the nation. He introduced the Racial Discrimination act which aimed to eliminate discrimination based on colour, background or religion.