Vision

Governor Lachlan Macquarie represents a figure of innovation, compassion and integrity in public policy. His leadership from 1810-21 brought significant social, economic and architectural transformation in NSW, playing a central part in the transition from penal colony to free settlement. His work in founding (with his wife, Elisabeth Macquarie) what is now the Bible society, as well as developing programs to help emancipated convicts reform into “good, Christian lives” leaves a significant and lasting Judeo-Christian heritage. The inscription on his tomb reads “The Father of Australia”. 

 

In modern Australia we often see an adversarial nature of politics which has come to so dominate it, and there seems to be little goodwill or cooperation modelled in either the personal or party relationships. It is hoped that the relationships developed through the Lachlan Macquarie Internship, with its focus on creative academia and community living, will help encourage better understanding between parties and between government and the public service.

 

What we seek to achieve by this programme is the transformation of the nature of politics and governance in Australia. By helping develop the character and intellectual foundations of future politicians, advisors and public policy influencers before they begin their careers, we will see more decisions made based on well-formed values and vision. We also hope to see networks develop across organisations, party lines and political philosophies, which will help improve the nature of politics and government in Australia.

 

For a copy of the Lachlan Macquarie Internship prospectus, please clik here.