Diane Fingleton discusses the challenges she initially faced in reconciling her Catholicism and the push for abortion reforms during the Whitlam era. She explains the current state of abortion law in Queensland and the lack of consistent political direction on the issue.
Roger Scott discusses the influence of religious groups on education policy. He comments on some of the issues during the Goss era, including upgrading of the Christian Heritage College, social science education and corporal punishment.
Roger Scott details his objections to Bjelke-Petersen's education policy including commentary on the SEMP and MACOS program. He describes how both educational programs were abolished, in part due to pressure group influence. He notes the subsequent parliamentary inquiry and select committee on education which criticised the influence of these groups.
Rob Whiddon describes the Queensland Labor Party's lack of support for the social movements of the time. He notes the internal conflict in the Queensland branch and notes the attempts by some in the party to build coalitions with other left groups, including Christian groups.
Bill Hayden discusses the long term impacts of the split on the Queensland branch of the Labor Party. He describes his own concerns about the Catholic Church and how these concerns influenced his views on appropriate party membership.
Bill Hewitt delves into the leaderships styles of the various National Party premiers and Liberal leaders and some of the significant events of the era. He gives his views on the replacement of Mike Ahern as premier.
