Secularism
Towards true separation of church and state
Humanists Australia values the inherent dignity and worth of every individual and recognises the fundamental importance of human flourishing within a just and equitable society. In pursuit of these principles, we advocate for the following:
the separation of the state from religious institutions,
public policy that is grounded in reason, evidence and universal ethical values, and
fostering a society where all can flourish, whether they are religious or non-religious.
What is Secularism?
The word ‘secularism’ has been used in different ways by different authors. Humanists Australia adopts the definition provided by Andrew Copson in his book on the topic, as the following three parts:
separation of religious institutions from the institutions of the state and no domination of the political sphere by religious institutions;
freedom of thought, conscience, and religion for all, with everyone free to change their beliefs and manifest their beliefs within the limits of public order and the rights of others;
no state discrimination against anyone on the grounds of their religion or non-religious world view, with everyone receiving equal treatment on these grounds.
[Secularism: A Very Short Introduction by Andrew Copson, Oxford University Press, 2019]
Secularism is not an attack on religion; rather, it is a safeguard for religious freedom and pluralism. A secular government respects the autonomy of individuals to hold diverse beliefs, whether religious, non-religious, or otherwise, without imposing any particular worldview on others. It fosters an environment where individuals are free to express their beliefs or non-beliefs without fear of discrimination or coercion, as long as they harm no other.
Petition to remove religion from the ANZAC Day Dawn Service
Humanists Australia supports the Change.org petition calling on the Australian War Memorial to remove religious elements from the ANZAC Day Dawn Service. The Dawn Service should honour all who served - regardless of belief.
Petition for review of religious impacts and reform of Statutory Exemptions
Humanists Australia supports e-petition EN9663 calling on the House of Representatives to strengthen protections against faith-based discrimination and vilification, review religious exemptions that allow discrimination, and safeguard all Australians from coercive indoctrination. Our laws should reflect modern, secular Australia.
Census 2026 – Not Religious? Mark ‘No Religion’!
Humanists Australia has joined a coalition of secular organisations to launch the “Not Religious? Mark ‘No Religion’” campaign. The Census is coming in August 2026 – and we need your help in answering one very important question.
When asked “What is the person’s religion?” – if you don’t follow a religion, answer honestly: No Religion.
Why does it matter? Government funding, policy, and public life are all shaped by Census data. An accurate count of non-religious Australians means secular voices carry the weight they deserve.
Help make it count:
Visit https://censusnotreligious.org.auShare the link with family, friends, and colleaguesStart the conversation now
In 2026, mark ‘No Religion’ – and make every secular Australian count.
How you can help
Show your support for true separation of church and state. Please sign and share the petition below so we can raise our voices together.
Sign and share the change.org petition, join us, or donate today.
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