Law and Religion Workshop
4^th June 2008
Legal Intersections Research Centre, Faculty of Law, University of Wollongong

UOW Media Release (4 June 2008)

Following the success of its Spring 2007 Seminar Series on Law and Religion, the Legal Intersections Research Centre (LIRC) at the Faculty of Law, University of Wollongong, is holding a workshop to expand discussion and exchange ideas on the religious dimensions of law, the legal dimensions of religion, and the interaction between secular law and religion.

Particular attention is being given to the implications for Australian law and society, religious tolerance and freedom. The workshop not only creates important reference works in the field, but also provides excellent opportunities to work with highly-placed scholars, and religious leaders.

Please note that this is a closed (invitation only) workshop. It is not open to the general public. If you need more information or would like to request an invitation, please send an email to Nadirsyah Hosen: hosen@uow.edu.au

The programme outline is as follows:

I. Relationship between Religion and State: historical and theoretical perspectives (9.00 - 10.45). Explores questions such as: How do we place the position and contribution of religion in our multicultural society? Should recognition of religious diversity lead to legal pluralism? Can state and religion co-exist in harmony in order to promote democracy and human rights?

1. Religion and State: a theoretical framework (Dr. Darryn Jansen, TC. Beirne School of Law, University of Queensland)

2. The Future of Secularism: A Critique (Prof. Margaret Davies, School of Law, Flinders University)

3. Religion, Multiculturalism and Legal Pluralism (Prof. Frank Brennan SJ AO, Australian Catholic University)

Discussant: Dr. Cassandra Sharp, Faculty of Law, University of Wollongong

Break: 10.45 - 11.15

II. Religious Law and Australian Legal Systems (11.15 – 13.00). To what extent religion can play a role in secular legal system? How do peoples of various faiths live successfully by both Australian secular laws as well as their religious laws? What is the limit of freedom of religion? What is the relationship between religion and Australian values?

1. The Role of a Jewish Court in Australia (Rabbi Lawrence, Beth Din)

2. Separations as a Theme in the Christian Influence on Western Law (Dr. Rick Mohr, Faculty of Law, University of Wollongong)

3. Does Australia need a Mufti? Analysing the Institution of Ifta in an Australian Contemporary Context (Dr. Mohamad Abdalla, Griffith Islamic Research Unit, Griffith University)

Discussant: Gregory Rose

LUNCH : 13.00 - 14.00

III. Religion, Humanism and Terrorism (14.00 – 17.00): This afternoon session explores more recent developments of religion in the society, including religion and terrorism, and also religion and humanism.

1. Religion and Security (Dr. Nadirsyah Hosen, Faculty of Law, University of Wollongong)

2. Religion and Freedom of Speech (Dr. Kath Gelber, University of New South Wales)

3. Religion and Justice: Atonement as an element of justice in both western law and Christian thought’ (Dr Cassandra Sharp, Faculty of Law, University of Wollongong)

Break: 15.45 – 16.15

4. Religion and Domestic Violence (Dr Daniel Stepniak, Faculty of Law, University of Western Australia) 

5. Religion and Property (Dr. Paul Babie, Law School, University of Adelaide)

CLOSURE : 17:00