This goes to demonstrate the fact that John Howard established this inquiry in order to bring about his own absolution, not to bring about any form o… - Kevin Rudd

I actually believe in a big Australia - I make no apology for that. I actually think it's good news that our population is growing.

... no diplomatic intervention will ever be made by any government that I lead in support of any individual terrorist's life. We have only indicated in the past, and will maintain a policy in the future, of intervening diplomatically in support of Australian nationals who face capital sentences abroad.

Compassion is not a dirty word. Compassion is not a sign of weakness. In my view, compassion in politics and in public policy is in fact a hallmark of great strength. It is a hallmark of a society which has about it a decency which speaks for itself.