I was pleased to speak on the motion which affirms Australia’s commitment to the abolition of the death penalty on a global level and also acknowledges the bipartisan position of Australian governments over many years in our continued opposition to the death penalty in all circumstances for all people.
The death penalty has no place in modern society and my own personal opposition to it is absolute. It comes from my profound believe that no human being has the right to take the life of another human being under any circumstances. It is also central to the tenant of our belief – and my belief – in human dignity and the power of forgiveness and mercy.
